Mark Piesing’s “The Secret History of Drones” in the Fall 2024 issue of Air & Space Quarterly delivers a comprehensive chronology of unmanned aerial vehicle development. The article meticulously traces drone evolution from Nikola Tesla’s 1898 radio-controlled boat demonstration to contemporary military applications.
Piesing highlights pivotal milestones in drone history. He details Elmer Sperry’s 1913 gyrostabilizer invention, which enabled autopilot functionality and marked a significant technological leap. The author also covers Archibald Low’s 1917 “Aerial Target” project, widely considered the first radio-controlled aircraft.
The piece examines drone use during World War I and II. It describes early attempts like the Kettering Bug and progresses to more advanced models such as the TDR-1, a Navy drone capable of carrying 2,000-pound payloads. Piesing notes that while initial results were often disappointing, military leaders recognized the technology’s potential.
Post-war developments receive significant attention. The article covers Operation Crossroads, where drones collected data from nuclear tests at Bikini Atoll. It also details Vietnam-era drones like the AQM-34 Ryan Firebee, which flew over 34,000 surveillance missions between 1964 and 1975.
Piesing effectively illustrates how drones transitioned from experimental novelties to crucial military assets. He explores their evolving roles in reconnaissance, target practice, and combat operations. The author also touches on technological advancements, including the integration of television guidance systems.
The article concludes by addressing current perceptions of drones and drone operators. Piesing notes that despite significant technological advancements and proven military value, drones are often not taken seriously in aviation circles. He highlights the persistent view of drone operation as a lesser form of piloting.
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