The British Army is searching for soldiers with the aptitude to join its new drone academy and potentially become kamikaze drone operators.
The service’s 16 Air Assault Brigade recently ran a screening session to select who among its existing drone pilots can be enrolled in the jHub Drone Academy to further hone their skills.
The jHub promises to deliver a suitable training solution through the adoption of innovative technology and modern techniques.
During the screening, participants simulated a first-person view (FPV) drone operation using a 5-inch (13-centimeter) unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) and virtual reality goggles.
A laptop was also used to display simulated obstacles and other scenarios to aid the screening process.
Corporal Morgan McConnell, one of the soldiers who participated in the test, said FPV drones are typically difficult to control because they lack the GPS and stabilization software fitted to conventional UAVs.
“It’s going to take time to get to the stage of flying it instinctively,” he explained. “I’m looking forward to the challenge.”
Shortening the Kill Chain
FPV and kamikaze drones carry small explosive charges for attacking enemy positions and destroying armored vehicles from the inside.
In the UK, soldiers reportedly need to complete a three-week course to qualify as FPV drone pilots.
Senior UAV operator Sergeant Adam Barnes said that while this type of drone is harder to operate, it is much simpler, more adaptable, and relatively cheaper than other unmanned platforms.
An infantry unit can use FPV drones to reach and strike targets and eliminate the need to call in mortars, artillery, or an air strike to carry out the attack.
“It shortens the kill chain and gives a commander more options, making for a more efficient use of resources,” Barnes noted.