The US Special Operations Command (SOCOM) plans to use FPV (first-person view) drones in operations focused on the Middle East. It is thought that drones will be safer and more effective than military dogs, especially in difficult tasks such as cave clearing and underground operations. SOCOM's new strategy was developed considering the limited field of vision of military dogs and their inefficiency in difficult terrain.
Advantages of FPV Drones and Comparison with Military Dogs
Military dogs play a major role, especially in explosive detection and search missions. However, according to SOCOM, their limited field of vision and limited effectiveness in difficult terrain make them ineffective in underground tunnels, caves and other confined spaces. SOCOM’s request for FPV drones stands out as a strategy aimed at addressing such challenges.
FPV drones can maneuver safely in tight spaces without the need for line-of-sight connectivity when guided via fiber optic cables. This feature makes them ideal for working in tunnels and underground structures, as well as between obstacles. Additionally, FPV drones offer a safer option in military operations because they are not blocked by electronic warfare equipment.
Increasing Demand for Fiber Optic Controlled Drones
Both Ukraine and Russia have recently been actively using FPV drones that use fiber optic connectivity. Such drones do not lose connectivity when flying low or passing between obstacles, making them much more useful in difficult combat environments. Especially in places like tunnels and narrow spaces, FPV drones can maneuver inside buildings and between obstacles with full control and image accuracy.
SOCOM's FPV Drone Procurement Request and Operation Areas
SOCOM’s FPV drone procurement request will be used in the US Central Command (CENTCOM) theater of operations. This theater of operations spans Afghanistan, Iraq, Iran, Syria, Lebanon and Yemen. In operations in these countries, the effectiveness of FPV drones will be of great importance, especially in detecting underground structures and hidden threats.
The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) actively uses FPV drones against Hamas and Hezbollah in areas such as Gaza and Lebanon. The Israeli Ministry of Defense plans to procure thousands of FPV drones from domestic companies in response to increasing demand. While an initial order for 5.000 drones has been placed, this number is expected to increase to 20.000.
Place of Military Dogs
While SOCOM sees FPV drones as a technology that could replace military dogs, the superior olfactory and visual perception capabilities of military dogs are still unrivaled. In the 2019 US operation that killed ISIS leader Abu Bakr al-Baghdadi, a military dog named “Conan” was used to trigger Baghdadi’s suicide attack. Such feats underscore the operational value of military dogs.
However, SOCOM and other military units plan to increase their use of FPV drones in light of developments in Ukraine and Gaza. This is seen as a step taken by US Special Forces to keep up with other militaries.
A Step Towards New Technology
SOCOM’s move to procure FPV drones demonstrates the rapidly evolving role of the technology in the defense arena. In particularly challenging operational areas, FPV drones offer a safe and effective alternative to military dogs. However, technology that can completely replace military dogs has not yet been developed. Nevertheless, FPV drones appear to make significant contributions to military strategies on the modern battlefield.
