. . .But the potentian that is emergine from these is stagering.

Two things I would like to draw your attention to is CQB (Close Quaters Battle) and the AH-64 Apache Gunship.

The Apache system is more that just some flying gunship, but a network between each helicopter. Each one communicates with the other, and allows each helicopter to simultaneously target and take out a different target. No one fires two missiles at the same target, all targets can be aimed at and eliminated at once.

Now think about CQB, while Marines have demonstrated remarkable success with MOUT, the casualty rate is still high.

Now think about a fleet of about 7 (hmm, better make the unit size scalable) or so small, hovering apache like UAVs. . .

-Hover similar to a helicopter for control in dense urban area
-Silent
-Infra Red camera
-Small calliber firearm
-Networked for targeting (like apache), but also for navigation
-Deployable by a special forces unit

Forget individual pilots each group sends all video feeds to an individual room. An team of one officer and sever enlisted technicians operate this group through and almost Starcraft/quake3 type interface. The UAVs use their AI to carry out the instructions of this team.

A mission could be as follows: (imagine this ina city like Faluja)

At night a Special Forces team deploys robotic micro drones in an area suspected of being central to the enemies command and control structure.

Once airborn the UAVs switch to remote operation by a team back at headquarters. The UAVs systematically scout through out buildings, with one in the lead, the others behind.

The lead one spots a group of 7 men huddled in a group through its thermal sensor. It sends back video and audio intel, and upon review its control team established friendly/hostile status and target/intel value. One could stay and collect intel while the others move on, or if the Rules of Engament and situation is appropriate, they could be ordered to kill.

When ordered to kill all drones could simultaneously and silently move out of hiding behind the wall, target and kill all individuals. . . instantly.. . .

then move on scouting through houses.