Tactical Drones are here to stay

The Evolution of Drones: From Filmmaking to Tactical Applications

Drones have come a long way from their early days as one-size-fits-all solutions, evolving much like the original Ford Model T into various shapes and forms. Early commercial drones were mainly used by filmmakers and videographers, and their high cost made them inaccessible for the average hobbyist. However, with the passage of time, manufacturers have produced more affordable, user-friendly drones that have rapidly gained popularity.

Enter the Age of Hobby Drones

As hobby drones became more popular, their potential for applications beyond aerial videography became apparent. Enthusiasts have been pushing the limits of drone capabilities, from swarms creating dazzling light shows to drones speeding through obstacle courses with precision. This has led to a renaissance of tuning and third-party modifications that have transformed how we use drones.

Tactical Uses of Drones in Conflict Zones

With their versatility, low cost, and ease of use, it’s no surprise that consumer drones have found their way into wars and conflicts around the world. Military and paramilitary groups have weaponized drones for stealthy reconnaissance and even direct attacks on enemy positions using improvised explosive devices. Drones can also be used to deliver critical resources like medicine or communication equipment to allies in contested areas.

Drone Payload Delivery Basics

Learning how to deliver payloads with your drone can be a valuable skill, even if you’re not currently involved in asymmetric warfare. The DJI Mavic Air2S, for example, is a popular choice for payload delivery due to its powerful motors and extended battery life. Setting up a drone for payload delivery can be as simple as installing a relatively cheap light sensor switch motor that can latch onto your drone with an included mounting bracket.

Low-Tech Drone Payload Options

If your drone doesn’t have a plug-and-play accessory switch, there are still low-tech options available. One example of a makeshift setup is using a cut-open water jug to carry a hand grenade. When the drone tilts forward, the grenade rolls out of the jug, and a string attached to the drone pulls the pin. Although this is incredibly dangerous, it illustrates that improvised drop methods can be devised for almost any drone.

Drone Payload Weight Considerations

It is important to consider the weight of the payload when using a drone for delivery. A DJI Mavic Air 2S, for instance, can typically carry about 16 ounces at most. However, to ensure safe maneuverability and flight distance, it’s recommended to keep the payload weight under 8 ounces. Additionally, make sure your drone has enough battery life to return from its destination to avoid emergency landings in inaccessible areas.

Potential Drone Payloads

Here’s a list of some possible payloads and their weights:

• ThrowTx audio surveillance device with custom 3D-printed drop housing: 0.7 ounce
• GoTenna Mesh network device: 1.7 ounces
• SanDisk solid-state drive with USB cable: 2.1 ounces
• Midland X-Talker FRS walkie-talkie: 3.7 ounces
• Raspberry Pi Zero with 800mAh battery, USB cable, and zippered case: 3.

The Importance of Tactical Drone Drops

As previously mentioned, the tactical use of drones in various applications is becoming more common. The ability to deliver payloads accurately and efficiently can be a game-changer in emergency situations, providing life-saving equipment or communication devices to those in need. Drone drops can also be used for surveillance, navigation, and communication purposes, making them a versatile tool in a wide range of situations.

Drone Payload Carrying Capacity

Drones can carry different payloads depending on their size and specifications. A popular drone model, the DJI Mavic Air 2S, has a maximum carrying capacity of about 16 ounces. However, it’s advisable to stay below 8 ounces to ensure safe maneuverability and sufficient battery life for the round trip. The weight of the payload can also affect the drone’s flight distance, so it’s crucial to factor in these variables before attempting a drone drop.

Possible Drone Payloads

• ThrowTx audio surveillance device with custom 3D-printed drop housing: 0.7 ounce
• GoTenna Mesh network device: 1.7 ounces
• SanDisk solid-state drive with USB cable: 2.1 ounces
• Midland X-Talker FRS walkie-talkie: 3.7 ounces
• Raspberry Pi Zero with 800mAh battery, USB cable, and zippered case: 3.9 ounces
• Raspberry Pi with PiSugar 1200mAh battery and 3D-printed housing: 6.7 ounces
• Baofeng UV-5RA dual-band ham radio: 7.2 ounces
• Raspberry Pi with battery, housing, RTL-SDR dongle, and antenna: 8.1 ounces
• Raspberry Pi Zero with USB cable, Mophie 6000mAh battery pack, and zippered case: 8.5 ounces

Securing and Protecting Payloads

When planning a drone drop, consider the payload’s durability and the potential impact upon landing. 3D-printed enclosures and soft foam padding can help protect fragile items from damage. Additionally, using kite strings and creative knots can secure payloads that don’t require protection from the drop.

Tactical Applications for Drone Drops

There are countless possibilities for utilizing drone drops in tactical scenarios. Some examples include:

• Delivering communication devices, such as walkie-talkies, cell phones, or GPS beacons, to lost or stranded individuals.
• Deploying surveillance or countersurveillance equipment for intelligence gathering.
• Using drones as radio repeaters to boost signal strength in remote areas.
• Dropping glow sticks or markers to help individuals or teams navigate unfamiliar terrain.

The Future of Drones in Tactical Scenarios

With the rapid advancement of drone technology, the potential applications for tactical drone drops will continue to expand. As drones become more capable, efficient, and versatile, their role in various emergency and tactical situations will only become more significant. Understanding the basics of drone drops and being prepared to utilize this technology can provide a crucial advantage in times of crisis.

Drone Payload Definition Table

Entity	Definition and Relation to Drone Drops
Throw Tx audio surveillance device	A small audio surveillance device that can be dropped from a drone to capture sound from a specific location. It can be utilized in tactical scenarios for intelligence gathering or monitoring hostile activities.
GoTenna Mesh network device	A portable off-grid communication device that creates a mesh network using radio waves. It can be dropped from a drone to provide a communication link in areas with limited or no cellular coverage.
SanDisk solid-state drive	A lightweight data storage device that can be transported by a drone to deliver or retrieve sensitive information securely.
Midland X-Talker FRS walkie-talkie	A two-way radio that can be used for short-range communication in emergency or tactical situations. Drones can deliver walkie-talkies to stranded individuals or teams to establish communication.
Raspberry Pi Zero	A small, lightweight, single-board computer that can be utilized for various applications, such as surveillance, communication, or navigation. Drones can transport Raspberry Pi Zero devices with custom configurations to support tactical missions.
Baofeng UV-5RA dual-band ham radio	A compact amateur radio transceiver that can be used for long-range communication. Drones can deliver ham radios to provide communication capabilities in remote areas or during natural disasters.
RTL-SDR dongle	A software-defined radio receiver that allows users to tune into various radio frequencies. When combined with a Raspberry Pi, drones can deliver RTL-SDR dongles for real-time radio frequency monitoring and signal analysis.
Mophie 6000mAh battery pack	A portable battery pack that can be used to power electronic devices. Drones can transport battery packs to provide power to stranded individuals or devices in remote locations.

As drone technology continues to evolve, the list of possible payloads and their applications will grow. We at the Tactical Enclave will keep on paying attention to drones. By staying informed about the latest advancements in drone technology and their tactical applications, individuals and organizations can be better prepared to face a wide range of scenarios and challenges.