Everyone knows drones have changed the battlefield, but how are we preparing our warfighters to understand the fundamental aspects of the fight?
The strategic landscape demands that future military professionals possess a deep understanding of small unmanned aerial systems (sUAS). TILT Autonomy’s Small Drone Warfare Course is specifically designed to empower students with the knowledge and practical experience necessary to effectively prepare for this evolving domain.
The course is led by Dr. Mark Jacobsen (Lt Col, USAF, Retired), Director of Research and Development at TILT Autonomy. Dr. Jacobsen is a distinguished US Air Force leader and strategist with a rich background in foreign affairs, technology, and innovation. He previously founded and led Rogue Squadron at the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), delivering advanced UAS/C-UAS capabilities to warfighters worldwide. In that role, he developed Dowding, a cloud-based drone detection network fielded globally, including in the National Capital Region by NORAD/NORTHCOM. Dr. Jacobsen also founded and led Uplift Aeronautics, a nonprofit that aimed to use swarms of humanitarian drones to break sieges. He holds a PhD from Stanford University.
This comprehensive course provides educators with a robust foundation in current drone technology and its tactical applications. The program emphasizes hands-on learning in a classroom setting, allowing participants to not only grasp theoretical concepts but also engage directly with the technology.
To enhance the learning experience, the course incorporates work within Endgame, our sophisticated machine-human teaming simulator. Endgame allows students to fly simulated missions under realistic, real-world conditions, providing exposure to complex operational scenarios. Through this blend of building, flying, and simulated missions, students will be brought up-to-speed on the state-of-the-art in small drone warfare, from fundamental principles to advanced tactics and counter-UAS methodologies.
Block 1: Drone ecosystem overview
Block 2: Drone configuration and operations
Block 3: Drone warfare
To enhance the learning experience, the course incorporates work within Endgame, our machine-human teaming simulator. Endgame allows students to fly simulated missions under realistic, real-world conditions, providing exposure to complex operational scenarios. Through this blend of building, flying, and simulated missions, students will be brought up-to-speed on the state of the art in small drone warfare, from fundamental principles to advanced tactics and counter-UAS methodologies.
In this demonstration, Dr. Mark Jacobsen showcases ENDGAME, TILT Autonomy’s virtual environment for training both humans and autonomous systems. Built on Unreal Engine 5, ENDGAME enables realistic software-in-the-loop simulation using actual ArduPilot firmware and Mission Planner ground control software. Watch as we recreate Ukraine’s recent drone attack on Olenya Airbase in just hours demonstrating TILT’s rapid response capability to emerging battlefield developments. While the graphics remain purposefully streamlined in this prototype, the focus is on operational functionality and tactical relevance.
This course is an invaluable resource for military institutions committed to providing their students with a cutting-edge education in modern defense. By equipping students with this knowledge and hands-on experience, you can ensure your students are well-prepared to navigate the challenges of tomorrow’s battlefields.
Our Small Drone Warfare Course has limited availability due to its hands-on nature and expert instruction. Contact us now to secure this critical training for your students and equip future warfighters with essential drone warfare skills.
