The Emergence of Mini UAVs for Military Applications

摘要: Overview The successes of the unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) in Afghanistan most likely will accelerate introduction UAVs into military force structure. What emerged was a tiered observation-detection-targeting system consisting spacecraft, Global Hawk UAV, Predator and often spotter on ground. However, complex terrain, as Afghanistan, urban situations, airborne assets may be needed much closer to A low-altitude tier UAVs--mini UAVs--could serve such purpose. This paper provides basic understanding aerodynamic scaling mini sense how their capabilities could matched with specific missions. Mini have substantial limitations, but low radar cross section, infrared signature, acoustic birdlike appearance these vehicles, combined remarkable miniaturized payloads, make them contenders for certain missions potential valuable tactical assets. New Class Aircraft class vehicles (UAVs) is currently under development. Several desirable features composition warrant discussion. fixed wing larger than micro that received publicity past several years, (1) substantially smaller UAV. considers henceforth called UAVs, wingspans ranging between 6 inches 10 feet fly 20- 50-mile-per-hour (mph) range (the regime typical model airplanes birds). While this not glamorous, significant developments occurred recent years. new aircraft more capable rugged less birds, especially terms control systems. These developments, plus arrival variety low-cost payload technologies, subject worthy consideration. would vulnerable attack loss due suffer high attrition rates. Thus, they inexpensive enough expendable while also flying useful payloads. To meet requirements, we believe small electrically powered use mass-produced, commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) technology. Electrically motors were chosen discussed herein because ease start, reliability, relative performance insensitivity altitude temperature. Although internal combustion engine produces higher thrust-to-weight ratio does electric motor, benefits are significant. Some experimentation regard has begun through programs Marine Corps Dragon Eye program. (2) Aerodynamic Characteristics address interest, examines five UAVs. first three (Extender, Eye, MITE) developed by air group at Naval Research Laboratory. (3) fourth design team University Notre Dame. (4) fifth vehicle, Black Widow, AeroVironment, Inc. (5) physical characteristics theses summarized table 1. All except Dame one, which included detailed lift drag data available providing aspect one. aspect-ratio-one Widow vehicle. For purposes paper, assume teams 1 produced an optimized each aircraft. Our intention investigate vary size determine relates payloads can carry mission duration. …