Thematic Intelligence: Manned-Unmanned Teaming (2024)

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs)-colloquially known as ‘drones’-have been a much-used part of advanced militaries’ arsenals for many decades. From the RQ-2 Pioneer used in 1991 during Operation Desert Storm, to the MQ-9 Reaper used in current conflicts in Syria, the US, in particular, has led the way in the development and deployment of unmanned systems in a variety of roles in modern conflicts. Over the past decade, major players in the global UAV market have directed significant attention and investment toward expanding the mission set of UAV platforms beyond the tradition ISR and precision ground strike roles. Buoyed by the continued development of artificial intelligence (AI) and platform autonomy solutions, western defense firms are exploring new roles for UAV platforms including aerial refueling, strategic bombing, and loyal wingmen among others. However, one concept is being explored which despite its significant technological challenges has the potential to radically alter the conduct of aerial combat operations and consequently the entire aerospace market over the next few decades: Manned-Unmanned Teaming (MUM-T).

MUM-T denotes the homogenous employment of heterogenous aerial assets, namely traditional manned platforms (i.e. fighter jets and attack helicopters) and unmanned platforms, within individual combat units. Indeed, while UAVs have been used extensively for over three decades, they have always operated independently from other manned air assets.

Key Highlights

• Studies of emerging technological trends and their broader impact on the defense market.
• Analysis of several countries rearming today and the impact that emerging technologies such as AI, drones, and additive manufacturing will have on the future outlook of the scaling rearmament theme.

Scope

• The key defense challenges that forces and defense sector suppliers face are covered.The investment opportunities for armed forces, suppliers, and institutional investors, across much of the value chain are covered. Highlights from MUM-T efforts that are currently being undertaken by various military organizations and defense companies.

Reasons to Buy

• Determine potential investment companies based on trend analysis and market projections.
• Gaining an understanding of the market challenges and opportunities surrounding the scaling rearmament theme.
• Understanding how spending on scaling rearmament will fit into the overall market and which spending areas are being prioritized.