UNMANNED DOMINANCE? AN EXPLORATORY ANALYSIS OF DRONE WARFARE IN THE AGE OF REPLICATOR
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Authors
Rausch, Christopher M.
Subjects
Replicator
Replicator 2
autonomous
drone
Ukraine
innovation
unmanned aircraft systems
UAS
counter-unmanned aircraft systems
C-UAS
Replicator 2
autonomous
drone
Ukraine
innovation
unmanned aircraft systems
UAS
counter-unmanned aircraft systems
C-UAS
Advisors
Dew, Nicholas
Date of Issue
2024-12
Date
Publisher
Monterey, CA; Naval Postgraduate School
Language
Abstract
To analyze the question of how Replicator might make a difference to the future operating environment, this research takes a three-part approach. First, it begins with a literature review to gain insights into the Replicator initiative, its objectives, and the challenges standing in the way of successful implementation. Second, it conducts an exploratory analysis of drone warfare in the Ukrainian theater utilizing quantitative data analysis through the collection of open-source data to understand the nuances of the current generation of drone warfare. This is accomplished by comparing drone and artillery strike data in Ukraine to glean insights into the current state of drone warfare and identify areas in which drones differ from more traditional forms of warfare. Finally, the third part of this research analyzes counter-unmanned aircraft systems (C-UAS) developments to understand what impacts C-UAS systems may have on the thousands of systems the Department of Defense (DoD) plans to field in the coming years under Replicator and Replicator 2. Armed with an understanding of current challenges, drone strike data analysis, and an understanding of evolving C-UAS technologies, this paper concludes with main takeaways from the exploratory analysis as well as recommendations for the fielding of DoD’s Replicator.
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Distribution Statement
Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.
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This publication is a work of the U.S. Government as defined in Title 17, United States Code, Section 101. Copyright protection is not available for this work in the United States.