Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP) refer to the specific methods, strategies, and steps employed by a group or individual during operations, particularly in the context of military, cybersecurity, or criminal activities.

Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTP) refer to the specific methods, strategies, and steps employed by a group or individual during operations, particularly in the context of military, cybersecurity, or criminal activities.

In the rapidly evolving world of drone technology, Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs) have become a cornerstone for efficient and safe operations. These structured methods guide how drones are deployed, operated, and coordinated within teams, maximizing effectiveness in various mission contexts.

TTPs consist of three interconnected components: Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures. Tactics outline the overall mission strategy, Techniques explain how to implement those tactics, and Procedures provide step-by-step instructions that ensure the techniques are executed precisely and safely.

In the drone industry, TTPs are crucial for tasks such as surveillance, target acquisition, and emergency response. For instance, during flood response operations, drone teams use TTPs that include a wide-area scan with infrared sensors, a grid-based search for trapped individuals, and real-time image transmission to rescue teams. Following established TTPs minimizes risk and improves response time.

The military and defense sector also heavily rely on TTPs. For example, Marine units have developed internal TTPs that emphasize team coordination, survivability, autonomy, and flexibility. These procedures enable more effective use of drones for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) as well as strike capabilities once upgraded hardware and software are integrated for kinetic missions.

The U.S. Air Force’s 21st Air Task Force is actively pioneering TTPs by integrating small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS) into traditional mission frameworks. This includes multidisciplinary teams using drones, additive manufacturing, and AI to solve problems quickly and efficiently, aligned with Department of Defense directives to achieve drone domain dominance by 2027.

As drones take on more autonomous roles, clearly defined TTPs become even more critical in programming safe and reliable behaviors. In advanced platforms, software may automate certain TTPs, ensuring consistency and safety during operations.

Jacob Stoner, CEO of Flyeye.io, a respected figure within the drone community, is a licensed commercial drone operator in Canada. His passion for videography and interest in the societal impact of drone technology advancements drive his operations. TTPs help teams remain synchronized, whether in defense operations or civilian applications like disaster mapping.

These procedures evolve over time to keep up with new technologies and mission demands. Continuous training exercises, integration of emerging technologies (e.g., AI, sensor upgrades), doctrinal evolution, and policy facilitation ensure that TTPs remain relevant and effective.

In summary, TTPs in the drone industry provide a repeatable approach that reduces decision fatigue and allows faster adaptation in the field. They are a crucial tool for ensuring safety, compliance, and efficient data collection, whether in military, security, or civilian applications.

1. The military and defense sector have developed internal TTPs that incorporate advanced technology, such as AI, for drone operations, focusing on intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) as well as strikes, while ensuring safety and precision.
2. As drone technology advances and autonomous roles become more prevalent, TTPs play a vital role in programming safe and reliable behaviors, with software automating certain procedures in advanced platforms, promoting consistency and safety.

Read also: