If everybody's job is to bombard from a distance, everyone will bombard from a distance.
What distinguishes drone-enabled infantry is the fusion of sensor and shooter into a single, remotely operated platform. Crucially, the infantry soldier or forward observer no longer needs to be physically near the weapon or the target area, shifting not just engagement geometry but also the risk calculus and tactical flexibility of infantry formations. Drone-enabled infantry has extended the range of contact well beyond visual range. This new sight capability, which can easily extend to 20-kilometer ranges, has decentralized the kill chain and altered the relationship between tactical maneuver forces and fires.
Squads and platoons can now scout and initiate attacks across vast distances. Once reserved for higher headquarters, the ability to see and strike is now organic at the lowest tactical levels.
Sounds impressive. Who closes with and destroys the enemy?
Because I can see infantry organized for this leading to longer drone bombardments stalling the eventual order to close with and destroy the enemy.
Because just a little more drone bombardment will improve the odds, eh? That's how World War I "preparatory" artillery barrages got bigger and longer in an effort to help the infantry survive the advance across No-Man's Land.
This Fall 2024 Air Force article was cited by the authors for raising the topic of the "air littoral" regarding small drones. Just to preempt the charge I don't appreciate the capabilities of small drones, I raised this threat and called that air littoral "the brown skies" in a 2018 Army article. Just saying.
NOTE: TDR Winter War of 2022 coverage continues here.
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NOTE: Image by Tech. Sgt. Francisco V. Govea II/ Air Force.
