America's UAV Program Is Going Through Numerous Growing Pains

MQ-9 Reaper UAS: An MQ-9 Reaper unmanned aerial vehicle flies over the crowd during the Aviation Nation Air Show at Nellis Air Force Base, Nev., Nov. 10. This year's show commemorated 60 years of airpower during the Air Force's year-long 60th anniversary celebration. (U.S. Air Force photo/Master Sgt. Robert W. Valenca)

Not What They Signed Up For -- Strategy Page

November 7, 2011: The U.S. Air Force effort to increase the number of large UAVs in service is failing. It’s not because of a shortage of UAVs, but a shortage of operators. Over the last two years, the air force has been hustling to double the number of CAPs (Combat Air Patrols) in combat zones. Two years ago there were 30-35 CAPs. Now the air force wants to put 65 CAPs out there. But they cannot recruit and train new operators fast enough.

Each CAP requires 3-4 Predators or Reapers (one doing the CAP, one or two in transit to the CAP area and one on the ground undergoing maintenance and repairs). Each UAV has a ground crew to take care of maintenance and repairs, as well as landings and take offs, while a smaller number are back in the United States, actually operating the UAVs.

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My Comment: One of the best summaries that I have read on America's drone fleet in a long time. Read it all.