Royal Navy's 700X Squadron Completes First Drone Resupply at Sea
The South Korean trials marked a significant milestone for the Royal Navy's 700X Naval Air Squadron. During the UK's Carrier Strike Group deployment, the squadron accomplished its first drone resupply at sea, successfully carrying essential supplies like ammunition, water, and medical kits over operational distances.
The trials also saw a Malloy T-150 drone from 700X NAS operate alongside the Eighth Army at the Rodriguez Live Fire Complex. This joint exercise explored the potential of using drones for casualty evacuation in scenarios where other routes are blocked.
Captain Ryan Schonewolf of the 168th Multifunctional Medical Battalion commended the use of drones, stating they could decrease the time needed to resupply the front line with critical medical supplies and test casualty evacuation methods. Lieutenant James Couling, flight commander of 700X NAS, praised the joint training for allowing them to operate in a new environment and test different concepts.
The successful trials in South Korea demonstrate the potential of uncrewed systems in large-scale combat environments. Lieutenant Colonel Robert McDonough, aeromedical officer with the Eighth Army, highlighted the challenge of moving supplies quickly in such conditions and the promise drones hold in addressing this issue. The event, planned over six weeks with coordination between the UK, Republic of Korea, and the US, marks a significant step forward in the integration and testing of drone technology in combat scenarios.
