Proof-of-Concept Sees Carrier System Air Drop UAVs From Cargo Ramp
Airbus has made another milestone in its continued testing of the Future Combat Air System when an A400M modified with a UAV air-launch system successfully deployed a drone in-flight. While the long running concept of an airborne aircraft carrier has eluded attempts at effective implementation in the past, the more compact size and safety of UAVs has opened new possibilities. "Drone hives" as a core element of theoretical swarm tactics - an area of study eager to nail down a fundamental combat doctrine as technology develops. Getting drone swarms into position is no easy prospect, given their small size and limited range.