Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), popularly known as drones, have been rapidly adopted in both the civil and defense sectors over the past two decades. Due to their low operating cost, versatility, long endurance, and safe operation in dangerous areas, these drones have proven to be a force multiplier in naval operations, especially in intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions. This has led governments worldwide to invest in the procurement, research, and development of UAVs. In maritime operations, drones offer many opportunities to improve efficiency and effectiveness in various tasks due to their unique capabilities and versatility.
Recent technological improvements have made UAVs more versatile, enabling them to perform a wider range of tasks in defense and intelligence roles. Advancements in data processing and communications have made it possible to use UAVs for more complex missions, such as electronic warfare or target acquisition.
UAVs have become an integral part of modern military operations. Their primary use is intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) missions, where they provide a bird’s-eye view of the battlefield without risking the lives of pilots. Additionally, search and rescue operations utilize UAVs for their ability to swiftly and efficiently cover large areas. Law enforcement agencies also use UAVs for constabulary missions, such as monitoring traffic or crowd control.
One of the most significant advantages of using UAVs over manned systems, such as maritime patrol aircraft, is their longer flight time. For instance, the MQ-9B SkyGuardian/SeaGuardian can fly for up to 30 hours without needing to refuel, while a manned aircraft can only fly for up to 12 hours. This makes UAVs an efficient and effective choice for long-duration missions, such as monitoring large areas or tracking targets over long distances.
Smaller UAVs are particularly advantageous because their small size, construction material, and flight altitude make them difficult for traditional air defense systems to detect. As a result, they can operate stealthily in contested and adversary areas, making them valuable assets for both military and intelligence purposes.
The versatility of UAVs makes them an important asset in Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW) operations. UAVs with lightweight dipping sonar can detect and track underwater threats. With their long endurance, they can be perilous for conventional submarines, which need to surface to recharge their batteries. General Atomics Aeronautical Systems (GA-ASI) successfully tested its MQ-9A Block 5 UAV ASW capability on November 24, 2020, deploying BT (bathythermograph) and sonobuoys to detect and continuously track an MK-39 EMATT (Expendable Mobile ASW Training Target) for over three hours. The company has already received orders for this MQ-9B SeaGuardian ASW capability from Taiwan and the UAE, and Japan is also interested in this capability. Moreover, UAVs are capable of carrying weapons such as anti-submarine torpedoes that can be used to attack submarines. Some drones have autonomous capabilities that enable them to perform this task without human intervention. For example, the T-600 drone developed by Malloy can launch Sting Ray electric anti-submarine torpedoes independently. This drone was used during the NATO REMPUS exercise in 2023.
The use of UAVs is gaining ground in mine countermeasures (MCM), with their ability to perform complex tasks and gather data from hard-to-reach areas. In July 2020, the Belgian and Royal Netherlands navies opted for the SKELDAR V-200 unmanned aircraft as part of their mine countermeasures capability replacement. Each of the twelve mine hunters will be equipped with an array of state-of-the-art technology, including an Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (AUV), Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV), Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV), UAV, and drone systems, all integrated into their toolboxes. This new level of technology enables the navies to detect, locate, and neutralize mines with greater precision and speed while minimizing the risks to human life.
Vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) UAVs have become increasingly popular for logistics purposes, providing a unique advantage for transporting goods in hard-to-reach areas. These UAVs are versatile, cost-effective, and can be used for various tasks. The market offers a wide range of advanced and popular VTOL UAVs that cater to various requirements. Among these, some of the most notable ones include Leonardo’s AWHero, Aero360 Hybrid, Malloy’s T-150 and T-650, Laflamme’s LX300, and Anavia’s HT-100. These UAVs come with exceptional versatility and can be effectively deployed for a range of missions, such as Anti-Submarine Warfare (ASW), Search and Rescue (SAR), Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) missions, and logistics transport. Moreover, Malloy’s T-650 sets itself apart with its ability to serve as a casualty evacuator, carry Sting Ray (an advanced lightweight torpedo) for ASW, and carry Archerfish (an expendable mine neutraliser) for Maritime Mine Countermeasures. Additionally, it can also be deployed for Maritime SAR missions, making it a highly desirable option for any mission requiring aerial support.
The Boeing MQ-25 Stingray is a tanker UAV that was developed to fulfill the US Navy’s Carrier-Based Aerial-Refueling System (CBARS) program, which has evolved from the earlier Unmanned Carrier-Launched Surveillance Vessel (UCLASS) program. The MQ-25 Stingray’s mission is to provide aerial refueling, carrier-based intelligence, and other capabilities that will help extend the range and survivability of US Navy aircraft carriers. The Navy will purchase over 70 MQ-25s. The MQ-25 Stingray has a unique design for aircraft carrier operations and is powered by a Rolls-Royce engine.
Territorial and border disputes have led to an increase in the acquisition of UAVs for defense purposes. China’s dominance in the South China Sea and disputes with neighbouring countries have contributed to the growing demand for UAVs in the Asia-Pacific region. India and Pakistan are engaged in a UAV arms race. Many countries use UAVs for search and rescue operations, and Frontex uses UAVs to intercept migrant vessels crossing the Mediterranean.
UAVs can be equipped with specialized sensors to detect and identify Chemical, Biological, Radiological, and Nuclear (CBRN) threats in maritime environments. Utilizing these UAVs can greatly enhance safety measures by accurately identifying hazardous materials, managing potential CBRN incidents, and ultimately protecting personnel from harm. With the ability to quickly and accurately detect CBRN threats, these UAVs have become an invaluable tool in safeguarding the well-being of individuals working in hazardous maritime environments.
Although UAVs are currently playing supportive roles, they could soon become a game changer in naval operations. With advancements in AI technology, UAVs can perform more sophisticated missions, and larger UAVs have switchable and modular mission payload suites, allowing them to perform multi-mission tasks. Technology advancements have also increased UAVs’ autonomy, and their support packages enable them to execute increasingly complex missions.