This article picked by a teacher with suggested questions is part of the Financial Times free schools access programme. Details/registration here.
Specification:
IB Computer Science syllabus connections:
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A2 Networks (A2.1.2): Digital infrastructures and mobile networks (5G/Starlink usage)
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A4 Machine Learning (A4.4): Ethical considerations of autonomous decision-making
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A1.3 Control Systems: Sensors and feedback loops (radar, infrared)
Read the article and then answer the questions:
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State two reasons why counter-drone systems struggle to detect low-flying UAVs, according to Weisi Guo
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Outline the concept of the proposed “drone wall” and the diverse range of technologies it is intended to employ
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Describe how an autonomous drone swarm, controlled from abroad, can change its strategy mid-mission and complicate attempts to counter it
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Explain the technical and logistical challenges of implementing a fully effective “drone wall” across Europe’s vast eastern flank
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Compare and contrast two non-conventional methods for neutralising an identified rogue drone
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Evaluate the use of autonomous Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the proposed “drone wall” to trigger destructive countermeasures (such as lasers or collisions), considering both technical reliability and ethical accountability
Michael Brooke, Inthinking/thinkIB