Experience from Ukraine and other conflicts shows that drones can be useful without being invulnerable. Losses do not invalidate the concept any more than losses invalidate crewed aircraft. The strongest early candidates for carrier integration are missions dominated by endurance, repetitive workload, or high exposure rather than uniquely human judgment. Tanking, reconnaissance, and patrol therefore offer a practical beginning, with later expansion depending on leadership and operational evidence.
Notable Point · 1:07:58-1:10:18
Which carrier-air roles should become uncrewed first?
Reconnaissance, patrol, and refueling stand out because they are lengthy, wearing, or dangerous without always needing a person aboard.