Systems Approach to Unmanned Air Vehicle Development and Certification

It is widely recognised that Unmanned Air Vehicle Systems are the next evolutionary step for aerospace usage, taking on roles that are too dull, dirty or dangerous for manned aircraft. Major strides have been made in recent years in developing these systems. However, whilst the military has been successfully using UAVs in combat environments, certification issues have so far prevented exploitation these systems, in any significant way, for commercial or state roles. Even in military roles, the need to fly over populated areas and in airspace alongside other airspace users is recognised.