Why the New Frontier for Battle Drones Is Underwater
WSJ Tech News Briefing
Deep Dive
Why are defense companies and navies focusing on underwater drones now?
Underwater drones are being prioritized due to potential naval conflicts in the Asia-Pacific region, concerns about the vulnerability of subsea infrastructure like cables and pipelines, and the cost-effectiveness compared to traditional shipbuilding. Navies are also looking to enhance surveillance and intelligence capabilities using these drones.
What are the primary roles of underwater drones in defense and intelligence?
Underwater drones are primarily used for surveillance and intelligence, including analyzing ship movements, identifying naval vessels, mapping sea floors, and monitoring harbors. They are designed to be more survivable, travel longer distances, and operate at greater depths than commercial drones.
What are some examples of underwater drones being developed for navies?
Examples include the Ghost Shark by Anduril for the Australian Navy, Manta Ray by Northrop Grumman, Orca by Boeing for the US Navy, and Hearn by BAE Systems. Other countries like Germany, France, South Korea, China, and Russia are also developing similar underwater drones.
What challenges do drone makers face with underwater drones?
Key challenges include communication difficulties underwater, as radio waves don't travel well in water, requiring drones to surface for communication. Other issues include avoiding obstacles like fishing nets and animals, and designing drones to withstand high underwater pressure.
How do Apple AirTags help locate lost luggage, and what’s new in their functionality?
Apple AirTags use Bluetooth and the Apple Find My Network to locate lost items, including luggage. The latest iOS 18.2 update allows users to share AirTag locations with airlines, generating a web link that expires in seven days. Airlines like United, Delta, and Air Canada can access this link to help locate lost bags.
Which airlines are participating in Apple AirTag integration for lost luggage?
Airlines participating in AirTag integration include United, Delta, Air Canada, Turkish Airlines, Aer Lingus, Lufthansa, Swiss Air, Eurowings, British Airways, and Iberia, with more expected to join.
How does the Google Find My Network compare to Apple’s Find My Network?
The Google Find My Network works with Android devices but requires users to opt in, making it less powerful than Apple’s network, which automatically includes all Apple devices. Android’s network is more popular outside the US but lacks the seamless integration of Apple’s system.
What are some alternative trackers to Apple AirTags?
Alternative trackers include Tile, which uses Amazon’s Sidewalk network, and third-party devices like Pebblebee and Chipolo. These trackers often integrate with Apple’s Find My Network or Google’s Find My Network and offer features like rechargeable batteries and slim designs.
- AirTags can share location with airlines like United, Delta, and others.
- Optimal AirTag placement is crucial for accurate tracking.
- Latest iOS updates offer third-party sharing and location links.
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