AVM Roberts
UAVs. The potential of UAVs has been examined in some depth by the MOD. Suffice it to say here that UAVs, as an alternative to MPA, would have a number of severe operational and technical limitations. Some, such as data transfer rates and the ability rapidly and accurately to deploy weapons in response to a fast-moving tactical situation, are likely to be insurmountable, even in the longer term.
Bolleaux - Sir. I know of 2 types of UAV, one of which in British service, that can find, fix and then prosecute a target without any problem - this target is an insurgent, with an AK47 and suicide chest rig, riding a motorbike at 60mph through an urban environment. I would call that an "ability rapidly and accurately to deploy weapons in response to a fast-moving tactical situation"!
Granted no-one has yet developed a MAD equipped depth charge carrying UAV, but I would not be so bold as you have been to say that its development is "insurmountable". There are some very nice people with the initials G and A in California who would more than willingly build you a technology demonstrator (probably based upon their Guardian maritime search UAV) if you would care to stump up some money?
...and there's the problem - like F3WMB said - THERE IS NO MONEY!!!
LJ