THE RISE OF DRONE SWARMS IN MODERN SURVEILLANCE

2024 was said to be the Year of Technological Leaps. It saw significant advancements in drone-swarming technology, particularly in communication, coordination and AI algorithms. Improved communication protocols enable seamless information sharing between drones, allowing for intricate manoeuvres and coordinated actions. Enhanced AI algorithms empower drones with greater autonomy, enabling them to adapt to dynamic environments and make real-time decisions without human intervention. These advancements are crucial for operating in challenging environments, such as dense urban areas or disaster zones. GIRISH LINGANA reports on these breath-taking developments

- GIRISH LINGANA

Improved communication protocols enable seamless information sharing between drones, allowing for intricate manoeuvres and coordinated actions. Enhanced AI algorithms empower drones with greater autonomy, enabling them to adapt to dynamic environments and make real-time decisions without human intervention. These advancements are crucial for operating in challenging environments, such as dense urban areas or disaster zones.

Understanding the Swarm Concept

Imagine a flock of birds moving in perfect harmony, each individual contributing to the overall movement of the group. Drone swarming mirrors this natural phenomenon. It involves a network of drones working together as a single entity, guided by sophisticated communication, AI and ML algorithms. This allows each drone to perform its task while remaining synchronized with the entire swarm, creating a highly adaptable and efficient system.

From Military Origins to Diverse Uses

The concept of drone swarming emerged from the military need for autonomous surveillance and reconnaissance. Early experiments focused on basic coordination, but advancements in AI and communication have unlocked far greater potential. Now, complex algorithms enable intricate manoeuvres and real-time decision-making, allowing swarms to respond dynamically to changing situations.

This evolution has broadened the scope of drone swarming beyond the battlefield. Today, we see its application in diverse fields:

• Disaster Response: Quickly assessing damage, locating survivors and delivering aid in disaster zones

• Environmental Monitoring: Tracking wildlife populations, monitoring deforestation and assessing pollutionlevels