Shifts in UCAV Market Necessitate a Realignment of Unmanned Combat Prospects

LONDON, July 7, 2014 /PRNewswire/ --

With a dramatically evolving market for unmanned combat air vehicles, a dedicated forum in London is bringing together military end-users and those that build UCAVs and their components. 

As outlined in recent market studies, restrictive budgets in Western Europe and North America, coupled with a changing landscape for military operations, the demand for armed unmanned systems has slowed in these previously lucrative regions. However, other parts of the world continue to spend on fresh modernisation efforts. As UCAVs become more advanced, more cost-effective and further proven in the battlefield, there is expected to be an upswing in demand among emerging powers. Read the report here: http://bit.ly/1sOmFLn

For those nations already commanding an active capability or with next-generation platforms in development, the onus is on making the most of the capability at the lowest possible cost. Strategic plans are being reshaped and the integration of UCAVs into the wider network - alongside pilot training, payload considerations and support systems - all remain problematic areas requiring sustained investment.

It is hoped that by engaging in direct dialogue with commercial solution providers, those innovating the equipment will have a full understanding of the expectations for future UCAV operations. The UCAV 2014 conference (July 30-31) will therefore offer insight and networking opportunities from end-user representatives from France, Italy, Spain, Turkey, and the United States. BAE Systems will also be providing an exclusive update on the Anglo-French Future Combat Air Systems (FCAS) programme and the performance of its Taranis demonstrator.

The domain remains one of intense international interest with recent days dominated by discussions on the possible deployment of unmanned systems to counter the ISIL insurgency in Iraq. Meanwhile, the German Defence Minister spoke out in favour of investment of a European UCAV and the United States allocated more funding to its impending next-generation UCLASS system, mirroring the projected timeline for the launch of Russia's first UCAV.

To stay on top of the market and connect with other professionals in this industry, bookings to the UCAV 2014 conference can be made by visiting http://www.ucavconference.com.

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SOURCE Defence IQ