How Unmanned Systems Could Bring Back Naval Aerial Mining

Until the introduction of the Quickstrike-ER in 2014, aviators continued to train for aerial naval mining at the same low altitudes and speeds.14 The mine is equipped with the Quickstrike Target Detection Device fuse, which detonates the mine when a vessel is within range. It also has the GPS guidance of a Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM), and wing kits that extend its launch range. The JDAM GPS guides accurate field-laying and allows aircraft to release mines from higher altitudes and at greater speeds. The Quickstrike-ER can provide aircraft with a standoff range of up to 50 nautical miles.A carrier’s...