An Israeli Lanius UAV (Photo: Forbes).
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has vowed to eliminate Hamas, and IDF ground forces have entered Gaza to begin the operation. One of Israel's biggest challenges is the underground tunnel system, a network of narrow passageways filled with bombs, booby traps and ambushes.
Israel has a specialized underground unit, but they also face the threat of heavy casualties in close combat with Hamas. According to Forbes, instead of sending forces down the tunnels, the IDF is considered to have the potential of UAVs to carry out the mission.
In fact, tunnels are the most challenging terrain for UAV control. Underground structures are full of obstacles and are prone to collisions that can break propellers and render the UAV useless.
Additionally, UAVs often rely on GPS or satellites for navigation, and underground signals can be ineffective. According to Forbes, UAV developers have come up with ways to deal with this challenge.
The first problem can be solved with anti-collision sensors and propellers placed in protective cages. The other problem can be solved with SLAM (Surface Localization and Mapping) technology.
SLAM is very similar to what humans do instinctively when entering an unfamiliar building: Automatically create a mental image of the location so they can easily find their way around without a map. UAVs using SLAM build a 3D map of the area where the weapon is entering, and simultaneously pinpoint the UAV’s location.
According to Forbes, Israel already possesses the above technologies. Elbit Systems has developed a system called Legion-X that can flexibly share data between many unmanned devices such as robots and UAVs.
Legion-X can integrate Lanius UAVs - a line of devices specifically designed to operate indoors and underground.
The Lanius is a small quadcopter with combined search and attack capabilities. It is equipped with take-off sensors and carries a grenade-sized explosive charge, making it a UAV that can loiter in confined spaces and attack when necessary.
According to Elbit, the UAV swarm integrated into the Legion-X system can perform group combat missions, move adaptively, make decisions, and interact intelligently with the surrounding environment.
Legion-X can connect wheeled or legged robots to support drones or act as a communication point to maintain a connection with UAVs deep inside the tunnels. This combination would allow Israel to conduct covert operations against Hamas without having to send forces inside, reducing the risk of personnel losses.
Zachary Kallenborn, an expert at the Center for Strategic and International Studies, commented: "Sending soldiers to fight in those tunnels often takes a long time and can cause great damage. Therefore, mobilizing UAVs for reconnaissance and carrying out attacks will significantly reduce the risk to humans."
“Elbit claims that the Legion-X is designed for underground operations. The question is how well the communications and positioning systems work underground,” said Kallenborn.
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