Experts find unmanned frontlines 'more manly'

Abu Dhabi - The Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference 2016 held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec) heard about the need to creating dynamic defence technologies in the wake of recent global issues.

By Jasmine Al Kuttab

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Published: Wed 9 Mar 2016, 11:00 PM

Last updated: Thu 10 Mar 2016, 3:20 PM

Military experts from across the world who converged in the Capital agreed on one thing - There is nothing more 'manly' than an unmanned frontline.
The Unmanned Systems Exhibition and Conference 2016 held at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec) heard about the need to creating dynamic defence technologies in the wake of recent global issues.
Delegates, senior members of global armed forces and military officials demonstrated how unmanned technologies are effective in protecting nations.
Major-General Pilot Ibrahim Nasser Al Alawi, Commander of the UAE Air Force and UAE Air Defence Force, pointed out that such awareness is of critical juncture, as it represents a major area of defense spending.
He discussed the need to deliver a "full spectrum" of operations covering a diverse range of technologies, and the vision to "transform our military into a strong regional force."
The chaos in Iraq, Syria and Yemen are examples of the importance of unmanned systems, highlighted Alawi, noting that "we must invest in our people, to insure we are well-equipped and well- prepared."
Colonel Christophe Fontaine from the French Air Force, explored the importance of unmanned systems' in supporting air operations, and how they can be of helpful in real-time decision making.
"There is nothing more 'man' than an unmanned platform," Col. Fontaine said, adding that "What kind of artificial intelligence do we put? This is the key question."
Jumaa' Al Kaa'bi, head of Programmes and Strategic Systems at Abu Dhabi Autonomous Systems Investments, said the UAE is dynamically improving its capabilities, through integrating and delivering unmanned systems, especially in the areas of surveillance and reconnaissance, which are crucial for the country's defense capability.
Abdullah Abdulqader of Emirates Training Technology, noted that international simulation and safety technologies have been heavily adopted and developed in the UAE.
Colonel Muhammad Al Naqabi from the UAE Presidential Guard, discussed the role of the UAE Air Force in leveraging and upgrading unmanned systems into conventional forces.
jasmine@khaleejtimes.com


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