The research arm of the Ministry of Defense takes drone operations seriously, not just one after another, but in a coordinated manner. The offensive swarm tactics program is beginning its second "sprint", a tendering and rapid prototyping phase of a system based on a central theme. This spring sprint is about "autonomy."

The idea is to gather a wealth of information about new technologies, whether sensors, software or better propeller blades, that can improve the ability of drones to coordinate and operate as a collective.

Specifically, a group of 50 people needs to "isolate urban targets" through mutual collaboration and ground robots in about half an hour. This should at least be the "operational context" that guides prospective candidates in deciding whether their technology is appropriate.

So a swarm of drones can plant seeds faster than a farm tractor, and that's practical for farmers, and that's not something the Pentagon is interested in. On the other hand, if you could take the idea of a swarm of drones dropping their own sensors on an urban battlefield, then they might shine with it.

However, you can also simply demonstrate how to use a compact terrestrial lidar system to improve cluster coordination at low cost and without using visible light. Or maybe you design an aerial tolling system that allows groups to raise flag units without human intervention.

These are really good ideas actually - maybe I'll run them while show host Timothy Chung is on stage at our Robotics event in Berkeley this May. Chung also oversees underground challenges and more for DARPA . He looks like he's having a lot of fun in the video, explaining the basic rules of this new sprint:

You don't really have to have 50 drones to participate - there are simulators and other ways to demonstrate value. More information about the program and how to submit your work for consideration can be found on the FBO page.