British Chinook helicopter deploys drones

The Royal Air Force (RAF) has begun trials of First Person View (FPV) drones deployed from a Chinook helicopter.

According to a recent update from the RAF, these FPV drones are being tested due to their proven effectiveness in recent conflicts, their tactical advantages on the battlefield, and their ability to be rapidly integrated with minimal training.

The RAF highlights that FPV drones, particularly those equipped with thermal imaging, can greatly enhance night-time operational capabilities, reducing risks associated with crewed missions in low-visibility conditions.

In a statement on LinkedIn, Alistair Carns, the Minister for Veterans and People in the Ministry of Defence, praised the initiative, saying:

“Amazing… now on to do it with tens of drones… well done the RAF. Imagine a helicopter deploying drones that can spread out 45km from the mothership, search, find and strike targets if required. The future is all about manned and unmanned teaming using capital platforms to deploy mass that increases range and importantly lethality. On land, in the air and at sea (on the surface and below).”

Carns suggested that integrating manned and unmanned systems could create a network of interlinked platforms capable of monitoring every sector of the battlefield. He described it as a “Russian doll effect” of interconnected systems, enhancing situational awareness and combat effectiveness.

FPV drones have gained prominence in military applications for their agility, low cost, and ability to perform a wide range of roles, from reconnaissance to strike missions. Their use has been notably effective in recent conflicts, including in Ukraine, where drones have been used to provide real-time battlefield intelligence and deliver precision strikes.

The deployment from a Chinook helicopter adds a new dimension to the RAF’s capabilities, enabling rapid deployment and extended operational reach.