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“Deterrence through Detection” UNCLASSIFIED

document, utility of air power is highlighted as a ‘force multiplier’. Actualization of this
strategic aspiration is sure to elevate Sri Lanka as a credible maritime security provider
in the region and beyond. Further, this would catalyse SLN’s leap into the air and sub-
surface dimensions reinforcing efforts into building credible defence and deterrence.

75. Unmanned Aircraft System (UAS) – While the command and control (C2)

processes for UAS are similar to those for manned assets, there are several
characteristics of UAS that can make C2 particularly challenging:

a. Communication Links: UAS communication links are generally more
critical than those for manned systems. In the event of lost communications, a
manned aircraft will usually continue the mission or return safely to base.
Although UAS can be programmed to return upon communication loss, they rely
heavily on continuous communication for both flight control and payload
operation. As a result, ensuring communication security and protecting
bandwidth from interference and threats is essential.

b. Transfer of Control: UASs can often transfer control of the aircraft or

payloads to multiple operators during flight. This requires close coordination
among all potential operators to ensure seamless operations.

c. Endurance: Many larger UASs have significantly longer endurance times

than comparable manned systems. Commanders and their staffs should leverage
this extended endurance when assigning UAS tasks.

d. Airspace Compliance: Compliance with airspace control orders is critical

because unmanned aircraft cannot visually detect and avoid other aircraft. They
generally have small radar and visual signatures and may lack identification,
friend or foe (IFF) capabilities, making strict adherence to airspace regulations
essential.

Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Capabilities

76. The United States Department of Defence categorizes UAS into five groups based
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on size, range, speed, endurance, and general capabilities . The following is adapted in
order to provide a comprehensive understanding into capabilities of UAS, in order to
emphasize on the associated fundamentals;

Group 1: Typically hand-launched, self-contained, portable systems employed to
support a small unit or base security. They are capable of providing “over the
hill” or “around the corner” reconnaissance and surveillance. They operate
within visual range and are analogous to radio-controlled model airplane.

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‘This section has been adapted from Thomas G. Mahnken, Travis Sharp, Grace B. Kim; ‘Deterrence by
Detection: A Key Role for Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Great Power Competition’, Center for Strategic &
BudgetaryAssessment,https://csbaonline.org/uploads/documents/CSBA8209_(Deterrence_by_Detection
_Report) _FINAL.pdf (2020).

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UNCLASSIFIED “Deterrence through Detection”