The UK’s Royal Navy is exploring new air combat capabilities, using helicopters as command hubs for drone fleets in a breakthrough demonstration.
Known as the Eagles Eye, the trials validated the seamless integration of manned helicopters and drones over a resilient multi-node mesh communications network.
A Wildcat multi-role maritime attack helicopter was placed at the center of the distributed digital network, receiving near-instant feeds from two surveillance drones and ground sensors.
This reportedly allowed the crew to spot and track a moving target beyond line of sight.
“This is essentially a universal translator,” said Lieutenant Commander Rhydian Edwards. “In the past, every new drone and sensor came with its own unique interface.”
“This breaks that cycle,” he added.
Next Phase
Commander Andrew Henderson of the Wildcat Maritime Force said the trials demonstrated the force’s direction as it adopts the Hybrid Navy model.
The Royal Navy aims to merge manned and unmanned assets under the Hybrid Navy model, creating a flexible, networked force capable of rapid, cross-domain response.
“By learning lessons from the war in Ukraine, we are securing these links into mesh networks, increasing interoperability, and proving we can connect sensors and strike assets across the battlefield instantly,” Henderson stressed.
Results from the Eagles Eye demonstration will feed into the next major exercise in Norway, where Royal Navy crews will operate alongside the Royal Norwegian Navy.
Together, they will apply new manned-unmanned teaming tactics to counter fast attack craft and other asymmetric threats in the coastal inlets near Bergen.
