Wild Card

A designated seat in combat insertion is reserved for an Unmanned Systems (UMS) operator to provide battlefield overwatch for special operations teams. The overwatch drone operator’s primary task is to reduce firepower capability in combat scenarios. This project aims to create software that allows for seamless transfer of drone control from operators on the ground to outside entities to provide more firepower and support to the operation.  

How can we eliminate the need for a UMS operator while maintaining drone overwatch capabilities?

Retask direct command and control of UMS overwatch to an outside entity.

Outside entities may include FOBs, drone operating bases (Nevada), theatre command centers, etc

Availability of mediums in extremis situations

Latency issues due to the distance of the outside entity

Repurposing the role of the UMS operator

Types of drones that can be feasibly brought into operations

Battery life/drone flight duration