Could mine detecting drones change the face of land warfare?
Drones equipped with technology to detect landmines and explosives are being researched by UK scientists.
The development of such drones has the potential to greatly increase protection for troops on the ground and change the face of land warfare.
Scientists and engineers at the Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) are conducting crucial research that would see mined areas cleared faster and more safely.
Providing infantry with the freedom to move at pace is vital for safe and effective missions – their ability to do this is significantly reduced by surface-laid mines, explosives or buried munitions.
Minister for Defence Procurement James Cartlidge said: "We've all seen the threat to safety and military advancement that mines can still pose.
"The UK and our Nato allies are spearheading research into this technology, which has the potential to not only enhance protection for our service personnel, but also speed up battlefield progress."
Two week-long trials have been taking place in conjunction with Nato allies, with the aim to give international and academic organisations the opportunity to showcase their unmanned aerial vehicle-mounted sensor concepts and to share ideas, knowledge, and solutions.
The UK system performed well under the trials, and the intention is to use the results of the assessments to prioritise the next stage of research and development.
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