How are AI and 5G revolutionising defence through autonomous drone technology?
Defence capabilities are tied to the pace of technological advancements, which can dictate the level of speed, accuracy and overall effectiveness of military operations, says Beyond Vision marketing specialist Christie…
June 20, 2024
Defence capabilities are tied to the pace of technological advancements, which can dictate the level of speed, accuracy and overall effectiveness of military operations, says Beyond Vision marketing specialist Christie Serafeimidi. As technology evolves, it directly influences how swiftly and precisely defence systems can respond to threats, perform reconnaissance, and execute missions. Narrowing down the term “technology”, how do tactical (unmanned aerial vehicles) UAVs such as QOne and HEIFU PRO (class 3 hexacopter) shape modern warfare? How are strategic operations influenced by the long range VTOne (Vertical Take off and Landing, Class 3, fixed wing quadcopter) VTOL autonomous drone?
The fusion of Artificial Intelligence and 5G connectivity, which offers far more advantages than previous technologies like 4G, is transforming the defence landscape, enhancing precision, efficiency, and responsiveness.
Pre-technology era: What limitations did traditional defence face?
The first thing that someone would mention regarding employing UAV technology and autonomous missions in military operations is that they are able to reduce human intervention significantly. On the other side, human intervention comes with several critical vulnerabilities. The dependence on human operators means that military operations are often susceptible to delays and errors on the grounds that human decision-making is not as instantaneous or infallible as automated processes.
Similarly, the range and endurance of these operations are constrained by human physical and cognitive limits, impacting the overall efficiency and effectiveness. Human dependency becomes particularly problematic in high-stakes scenarios where rapid decision-making and swift execution are of the utmost importance. The lag time associated with human processing and communication can lead to slower responses and potentially catastrophic consequences in situations where every second matters.
The challenges include:
- Delayed response times: Human-operated systems can experience lag in decision-making, leading to slower response times in critical situations.
- Operational risks: Manual operations increase the risk of human error, which can have catastrophic consequences in defence missions.
- Resource intensive: Continuous human operation requires substantial resources, including manpower, training, and logistical support.
How are AI and 5G transforming autonomous drones in modern defence?
AI serves as the brain of modern autonomous drones due to its ability to process vast amounts of data rapidly and accurately. It enables real-time data analysis, which is crucial for making immediate and informed decisions during missions. For instance, AI algorithms can analyse video feeds and sensor data on-the-fly, identifying potential threats, mapping terrains and recognizing patterns that might indicate enemy activity. This level of real-time processing allows drones to operate with a high degree of autonomy, reducing the need for constant human oversight and enabling them to adapt to dynamic environments. Furthermore, AI supports autonomous navigation, allowing drones to chart efficient flight paths, avoid obstacles, and adjust to changing conditions autonomously. Additionally, AI can predict maintenance needs by monitoring the health of the drone’s systems, ensuring that potential issues are addressed before they lead to operational failures, thereby enhancing the reliability and readiness of drone fleets.
On the other hand, 5G connectivity can be characterised as the nervous system of drone operations, providing the critical infrastructure needed for instantaneous communication. The ultra-low latency of 5G networks ensures that data transmission between drones and control centres occurs in real-time, which is essential for coordinated operations and timely decision-making. This high-speed connectivity supports the transfer of high-definition video and large data sets, enabling detailed analysis and precise control. Moreover, 5G’s expansive bandwidth allows multiple drones to operate simultaneously, sharing data and coordinating movements efficiently without communication bottlenecks. This network capability is vital for complex missions that require synchronised actions among multiple units, such as large-scale surveillance or coordinated strikes.
Together, AI and 5G connectivity create a synergistic effect that vastly improves the operational effectiveness of drones. AI provides advanced analytical and autonomous capabilities that allow drones to think and act independently, while 5G ensures thatthese drones remain connected and responsive to real-time inputs and commands. This combination not only enhances the speed and accuracy of drone missions but also significantly boosts their adaptability and resilience in various operational contexts. As a result, drones equipped with AI and 5G technology can undertake more complex and demanding missions, offering a robust tool for modern defence strategies and elevating the overall capabilities of military forces.
What can we expect from Beyond Vision’s fully autonomous drones at Farnborough International Airshow 2024?
All Beyond Vision’s drones, including the VTONE and HEIFU PRO, are designed to perform fully autonomous missions, significantly enhancing the efficiency, accuracy, and safety of defence operations. Both drones are powered by advanced AI, which enables real-time data processing, autonomous decision-making and adaptive navigation. The integration of 5G communications ensures that drones remain connected to command centres, facilitating real-time data exchange and coordinated mission execution.
The VTOne’s VTOL capabilities and HEIFU PRO’s hexacopter design allow for flexible deployment in various terrains and conditions, making them invaluable assets for defence missions. The high-capacity batteries extend their operational range, enabling prolonged missions without the need for frequent recharging. These features, combined with the intelligence provided by AI and the seamless communication enabled by 5G, allow Beyond Vision’s drones to operate autonomously with minimal human intervention, reducing the risks associated with human error mentioned above.
Beyond Vision’s beXstream software further enhances these capabilities by providing a comprehensive platform for mission management. The software’s AI-driven analytics and real-time monitoring capabilities ensure that every aspect of the mission is optimized for success.
Beyond Vision has been actively involved in several pioneering projects that leverage 5G technology. For instance, as part of the Link4S consortium led by NOS, Beyond Vision has contributed to optimising energy consumption in data transmission for critical infrastructure. Their technology has been crucial in detecting anomalies in Portgas’ gas infrastructure and REN’s electricity infrastructure. Additionally, BeyondVision participates in the 5G mobiliser project, which aims to develop, validate and demonstrate new products and services for future 5G networks. This project fosters innovation and growth, exploring new business models and solutions for both national and global markets
Unveiling the next generation drone at Farnborough International Airshow 2024 in collaboration with the Portuguese delegation
Small, portable, and powerful are the three adjectives that the company uses to best describe the new drone that is launching. Beyond Vision is set to unveil its latest quadcopter drone model at the Farnborough International Airshow 2024 in AED stand 1160, Hall1 along with the Portuguese delegation.This new quadcopter, named QOne, exemplifies the cutting-edge integration of AI and 5G technology, designed to meet the demanding needs of modern defence operations.
What is fascinating about QOne is its size relative to its capabilities. Despite its compact form, which enhances portability—a crucial factor when transporting equipment in challenging environments—QOne does not compromise on performance. Its small size allows for easy transport and deployment, even in the most constrained and remote locations. Additionally, QOne is weatherproof, making it highly reliable in diverse and harsh weather conditions.
Moreover, QOne features an impressive increased payload capacity of up to 7kg. This significant payload capability allows it to carry a variety of sensors, equipment and supplies, making it exceptionally versatile for various defence applications. Whether it’s for surveillance, reconnaissance, or logistical support, QOne’s ability to handle substantial payloads enhances its operational flexibility and effectiveness
In a nutshell, AI-driven drones powered by 5G connectivity have the potential to revolutionize defence operations as we know them, offering a glimpse into the future of warfare. As technology advances, drones will play a more prominent role in military strategies, providing unique capabilities to safeguard national security and respond swiftly to evolving threats.
