I was reading an article (in Technology Review, I believe) about the failure on one level of the U.S. military’s new communications technology. The article stated that while the top level commanders were given a clearer picture of the battle, field commanders didn’t enjoy this advantage mainly due to the limited, line-of-sight range of their equipment. I was thinking when I read the article that some drones with relay equipment could loiter above the battle space and take care of this problem, but what do I know. Are they already doing this? Is it technically possible? I know that JSTARs and AWACS are used for this purpose to some extent, but it seems like it would be useful to bounce your signals off a drone over your head to reach your subordinates and fellow commanders.
Thanks for your help,
Rob