Small, Many, and Learning: Commercial Quadrotors, AI Assistance, and the Transformation of the Infantry Platoon
Abstract
This paper develops a functional taxonomy of quadrotor employment (ISR, close strike, counter-UAS, swarm-infantry integration) and four theoretical theses on how commercial quadrotors with AI assistance are transforming infantry platoon tactics. Drawing on the Russo-Ukrainian war, it derives implications for NATO force structure and Italian defence planning.
Fields of Study & Subjects
Military Technology and Strategies
Military Strategy and Technology
Military History and Strategy
Publication details
- Journal / source
- Zenodo (CERN European Organization for Nuclear Research)
- Publication date
- 5 March 2026
- Language
- EN
- Document type
- Preprint