The BoM's Aerosonde robotic aircraft , has flown non-stop 3200 kilometres across the Atlantic Ocean. Small long range aircraft could be used for military observation, early warning and communicates relay, in place of large manned aircraft. They would also have application for civilian crop observation, bush fire and flood observation. One neglected aspect of use of the Internet is the need to retain the sense of community between people. This applies as much to a military organisation, as to a local community or rural produce group.
Research is needed as to what training, tools and techniques are best to allow for group cohesion.
About the author Tom Worthington is a Visiting Fellow in the Department of Computer Science, Faculty of Engineering and Information Technology at the Australian National University. He is an electronic business consultant, author and information technology professional, with 17 years experience in information technology, including nine years on high level IT policy and five in Internet applications.