A new project recently launched in Germany will develop and validate new technologies and algorithms for swarm guidance of unmanned systems. These technologies will be tested under real-world conditions including operations at the National Experimental Test Center for Unmanned Aircraft Systems in Cochstedt.
At the core of the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) Swarming project is the holistic coordination of multiple systems from a central control station.
“This has high relevance for civil security research, especially in crisis management,” DLR said. “Our goal with Swarming is to improve the effectiveness and safety of multiple unmanned systems in demanding scenarios.”
Ultimately, the goal is to develop an efficient solution for crisis management operations capable of handling complex mission scenarios effectively. In crisis management, unmanned swarms can quickly provide rescue and emergency forces with a comprehensive and up-to-date overview of the situation and the extent of the disaster when catastrophes occur. Furthermore, unmanned swarms can transport essential relief supplies to localised victims of a disaster or establish a communication network in crisis regions with impaired infrastructure.
The coordinated use of multiple unmanned systems, guided from a central control station, offers a wide range of advantages for emergency forces. A key aspect is the ability to operate manned systems such as helicopters together with unmanned systems.
“Optimal task allocation, as well as optimised mission and path planning procedures, are essential elements to ensure the effective deployment of both individual assets and unmanned systems operated in swarms,” DLR said. “The rapid replacement of a failed drone by deploying a backup system from a helicopter is a vital capability for increasing the efficiency of crisis operations. To further enhance system resilience, swarm guidance capabilities must also be available without a reliable Global Navigation Satellite System (GNSS). This existing gap in crisis management is specifically addressed, tested, and demonstrated within the project.”
The project is scheduled to conclude in 2026.
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Image: DLR
