Consisting of one-third of all military aircrafts, drones have played a major role in U.S. military operations in Pakistan, Yemen, and Afghanistan. Relying on a remote pilot to carry out airstrikes, drones are cheaper to build and operate than other types of aircrafts. However a new experimental drone, the X-47-B, will be entirely computer-controlled, and therefore more akin to cruise missiles.
Keven Gambold is director of operations for Unmanned Experts, a consultancy for unmanned aerial vehicles. Congressman Henry Cuellar represents the 28th district of Texas and is co-chair of the Unmanned Systems Caucus.