UAVs are one cost-effective answer to those needs and have the potential for use across the spectrum of conflict. Although the need for advanced capabilities is continually emerging, this concept identifies constraints that create a demand for lethal UAVs in 2025 and a possible solution to that need. By 2025, limitations may cause gaps in US airpower and UAVs offer the ability to bridge them. While proven very effective in Desert Storm, this triad has several limitations. First, the aircraft carrier fleet is limited.
Naval aviation lacks stealthy vehicles and long-range systems.
32 Carriers will increasingly be called on for global presence missions, but cannot be everywhere at once. 33 Second, land-based fighters require forward basing, which could take days or even weeks to develop before employment. Finally, long-range manned bombers require supporting tankers, have limited loiter time over long distances, varying degrees of penetration capability, and can require up to 48 hours to prepare for strikes. 35 Figure 3-1. The ripple effects of current US government budgetary problems are just beginning to affect US military force levels and strength.