The Martlesham Heath Aviation Society’s next Monthly Meeting takes place on Friday 6th March 2026 at 7:30 p.m.
Donald Mobley presents 2 topics on the same night - neither of which have ever featured in previous talks......
1) The History and Future of Drones
Drone technology has undergone a dramatic evolution from rudimentary pilotless aircraft to sophisticated autonomous systems transforming both civilian and military aviation. Once limited to basic surveillance, modern Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) now play critical roles in warfare, commerce, emergency response, and infrastructure.
In the military realm, drones progressed from experimental weapons in World Wars I and II to advanced platforms like the MQ-9 Reaper, capable of high-precision strikes and real-time intelligence gathering. These UAVs have become indispensable for modern combat operations, reducing risk to personnel while enhancing battlefield awareness.
On the civilian front, drones are revolutionizing industries. They’re used in agriculture for crop monitoring, in construction for site inspections, and in logistics by companies like Amazon and Zipline to deliver goods and medical supplies. Their role in disaster relief, search and rescue, and environmental monitoring continues to expand.
As UAVs grow smarter and more capable, the future points toward fully autonomous aerial systems integrated into shared airspace. This shift raises complex questions around privacy, safety, regulation, and ethical use. Addressing these challenges will require coordinated action among governments, industry, and communities.
Drones are reshaping how we will live, work, and defend ourselves.
Talk 2) The Early History of N.A.S.A. - just as fascinating as what N.A.S.A. is doing today. Come along and find out more!
Meetings take place at:
The Martlesham Heath Community Centre, Felixstowe Road, Martlesham Heath, IP12 4PB at 7:30pm.
For more information see our website www.mhas.org.uk or call Howard on 074