The manned-unmanned teaming (MUM-T) is well depicted by this formation of Lockheed Martin F-22 and F-35 alongside the Kratos XQ-58A Valkyrie unmanned platform. © US DoD
Manned-Unmanned Teaming with present and future combat aircraft By Luca Peruzzi
T
he development of unmanned aerial systems and other relevant technologies including artificial intelligence or AI, data and cloud networking, autonomy control system and system/weapon/sensors miniaturization and networking, as well as the need to increase the numbers of the shrinking fleet of costly manned platforms, have pushed numerous armed forces and industries to actively experimenting with mannedunmanned teaming (MUM-T). The deployment of uncrewed, “low cost” and “attritable” but not “disposable” - unless requested by mission goals or manned platform survival -
combat air vehicles aside manned platforms maximises their value as force multiplier, enhancing lethality and survivability in highly contested airspace. Although the introduction of autonomy technologies and artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the all-domain operations, the rules of engagement for new autonomous platforms and weapon systems are developing through stringent ethical consideration and evaluation, where the manin-the-loop continues to play an important role. This article wants to give an overall, nonexhaustive analysis of MUM-T programmes and activities on both sides of the Atlantic.
EDR | July/August 2022
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