At Hurlburt Field Air Base, located in the State of Florida, special operations troops of the United States Air Force (USAF) are increasing training in explosive ordnance disposal missions with the use of tactical drones. This technological transformation, which is progressively replacing traditional ground robots with compact unmanned aerial systems, reflects a strategic shift in operational preparation and innovation within the 1st Special Operations Wing.
During maneuvers carried out in open terrain, Explosive Ordnance Disposal (EOD) teams have demonstrated the effectiveness of drones compared to conventional robots. While the latter require transport and setup time, drones can be launched from a backpack within minutes, transmitting real-time images from a safe distance for the operator. Equipped with optical and thermal cameras, as well as 3D scanning systems, the new devices allow specialists to assess threats, map airstrips, or document explosions with unprecedented speed and precision.
The use of drones also provides significant value to civil engineering operations, since the acquisition of aerial imagery enables precise visual references of runway conditions, facilitating damage detection and repair planning after incidents. This capability to generate detailed digital models in just a few minutes optimizes response and contributes to maintaining the continuity of air operations in complex or emergency environments.
Added to this is the advance in autonomy provided by the artificial intelligence systems integrated into the drones. These functions make it possible to identify and track targets, maintain stable positions, and avoid obstacles with minimal human intervention, increasing mission efficiency and reducing personnel exposure to danger. From the U.S. Air Force, it is acknowledged that, although drones do not completely replace robots, which retain advantages in the physical manipulation of objects, both systems can operate in a complementary manner, expanding the range of tactical resources available.
The rapid incorporation of these systems has been possible thanks to the local initiative of the EOD squadrons at Hurlburt Field, which adopted and tested the drones in the first instance, allowing them to overcome initial challenges and more quickly integrate their capabilities into daily operations.
*Image credits: DVIDS.
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