2024: A Pivotal Year for Weapons Development
Time is both a constant and a variable. In the ever-evolving world of weaponry, where innovation and progress define the landscape, time holds a unique significance.
Every year, the development of military equipment follows its own distinctive path. Some trends diverge sharply from the past, while others continue existing trajectories. Regardless, the overarching rule remains: gaining time means gaining the advantage. Those who advance first in military technology and equipment lay the groundwork for dominance in future conflicts. So, how have various types of weaponry progressed in 2024? This year’s review may provide the answers.
Drones: Deeply Embedded in Battlefields
The development of medium and large drones continues to be a focal point of global competition. This year, stealth and multifunctional capabilities have emerged as defining features, hinting at a potential shift where drones may replace manned fighter jets in certain roles.
In the first half of the year, the U.S. Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) confirmed the XRQ-73 flying wing drone project. Meanwhile, India’s Defence Research and Development Organisation successfully tested a stealth wing demonstrator, and an Indian company conducted the maiden flight of the FWD-200B unmanned bomber in September.
The U.S. and Russia have also broken new ground by freeing drones from ground control station limitations. Early this year, the U.S. Air Force successfully conducted its first satellite-controlled landing of an MQ-9 drone. A few months later, a Russian aerospace company announced the successful remote operation of a drone via satellite.
While medium and large drones boast impressive performance, their high technological barriers exclude many nations. This year, several MQ-9 drones were lost under various circumstances, renewing doubts about their survivability in combat. In contrast, the effectiveness of small and micro drones in conflict zones has captured widespread attention.
First-person-view (FPV) drones gained immense popularity this year. At the start of the year, media reports indicated that Ukraine’s industrial sector planned to manufacture and supply FPV drones to its military throughout 2024. Russia responded by developing a multi-band communication system for FPV drones to counter electronic interference from adversaries.
The U.S. Department of Defense’s Replicator program advanced significantly this year, with the Switchblade-600 loitering munition becoming one of the first systems delivered. The U.S. Army is also refining its “launch effect” program, evaluating small drones, and finalizing quadcopters as future short-range reconnaissance platforms. Meanwhile, European countries unveiled the HX-2 and other small drones and loitering munitions.
Additionally, the U.S. Air Force is converting C-130 transport planes and MQ-9 drones into platforms capable of deploying smaller drones. Russia is reportedly exploring the use of S-71 drones to guide and coordinate drone strikes, showcasing a “mothership and swarm” approach that adds depth to drone warfare.
Despite the enthusiasm for drones, dissenting voices remain. The former U.S. Air Force Chief of Staff questioned the long-term utility of drones, while the French Army Chief of Staff suggested that advancements in anti-drone systems could quickly erode the tactical edge of small drones.
Defense expos increasingly spotlight counter-drone systems. This year, the U.S. Defense Department unveiled Replicator 2.0, focusing on drone defense systems. The U.S. military admitted to deploying laser weapons in the Middle East to intercept drones, and both U.S. and U.K. forces successfully shot down drones with air-to-air missiles launched from attack helicopters. Russia also tested several mobile counter-drone systems.
Whether through sustained research, skepticism, or debates over prioritizing drones or anti-drone measures, one undeniable fact remains: drones are embedding deeply into modern battlefields, solidifying their place as essential elements of contemporary warfare.
