INDO PACIFIC UAV DIRECTORY 2021

The development of unmanned aerial vehicles is growing apace, especially in China. New longer range ISR platforms are also on the procurement list of several nations.

- JR NG

Regional military forces continue to develop and field unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) as part of ongoing modernization efforts, with an eye on applications – such as border/maritime patrol and surveillance – where extended range and loiter performance is desired.

While contemporary tactical and medium-altitude long-endurance (MALE)-class UAVs have traditionally served in the intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) roles, there is an emerging interest in developing more capable systems that can undertake higher-end missions such as air-to-air combat, electronic warfare, and long-range strike.

Indeed, market forecaster Teal Group estimates in its 2020/2021 study that global military UAV research spending could be worth up to $64.5 billion over the decade on the back of new technologies. In addition, the company noted that the next generation of systems is being developed at a time when the UAV market is expanding rapidly due to liberalised US export regulations, affordable and accessible Chinese exports and a growing demand for armed UAVs.

AUSTRALIA