Drones tip the scales of conflict in favor of offense. All of the technological trends in motion will only increase the offensive tilt:
- Smarts + + +
- Numbers + + +
- Cost - - -
- Maneuverability + + +
- Range + + +
- Payload + + +
Frankly, against a foe this maneuverable, numerous, and smart/crafty the ability to physically defend against an attack from a distance is nearly nil. This is the same problem the USSR ran into when cruise missiles (early, but very expensive, drones) were deployed in the 80's. The cost of an air defense system necessary to protect against cruise missiles was beyond their means. Some more detail:
- Missile Defense? Radar, missiles, etc. The cost of a missile that has the capacity to intercept a swarm of drones flying evasively is prohibitively expensive.
- EMP/HERFs/Lasers. Power and range problems.
- Kinetic weapons. Again, the range is too short. These point defenses would overwhelmed.
In reality, all you can do is armor/bunker up and make the attack expensive in material as you can.
- or -
Have a similar offensive capacity.
This means one thing: drones of your own.
Drones that can do damage to a foe that is at least equivalent to the value of you as a target.
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