Should the Royal Navy fall back on visual signalling when communications investment is weak?
Short answerThe Royal Navy still uses signal lamps. Drones may need equipment that can exchange those signals with sailors as well as use modern laser links.
NotesSignal lamps remain part of Royal Navy communications practice. The panel compares a laser link with a very small, modern signal lamp. That comparison prompts a separate practical question about fitting drones with a system that can recognize and exchange ordinary lamp signals. Compatibility with sailors using existing equipment would have to be considered alongside new optical links.