
Episode #18
Beyond the drone: Building mission-ready unmanned systems
What does it take to turn a drone into something you can actually depend on in a mission? Drones and other unmanned systems are advancing rapidly, but the platform itself is only part of the story. The real challenge begins when it has to operate as part of a wider mission - connected, resilient, secure and able to deliver the right information to the right people. In this episode of Making Waves, hosts Stuart Will and Lone Hansen are joined by Glenn Møller, Strategic Account Director Defence at NORTHCOM, and Kenneth Hubner, Group Chief Product Officer at NORTHCOM, to explore what it takes to move from an impressive unmanned platform to a genuine operational capability. The conversation goes beyond the drone itself. Glenn and Kenneth explain why connectivity may be the most underestimated part of an unmanned system, why no single network can meet every critical communications requirement, and how terrestrial networks, private 5G, PMR and satellite connectivity could increasingly work together as a network of networks. They also discuss what changes when you move from five drones to hundreds or thousands, why systems integration becomes increasingly important, and why the Nordic environment has become such a demanding testing ground for new defence and autonomy technologies. What you’ll discover in this conversation: Why buying a capable drone is very different from creating an operational capability. Why connectivity is one of the most underestimated parts of an unmanned system. How PMR, 5G, private networks and satellite connectivity can work together. What happens when you move from a handful of drones to large-scale fleets. Why system integration can matter as much as the platform itself. What the Nordic environment can teach us about building resilient unmanned systems. Why the future could see unmanned platforms operating as integrated fleets across air, land and sea. ABOUT: Glenn Møller | Strategic Account Director Defence, NORTHCOM With extensive experience in drones, unmanned systems and radio integration, Glenn works with customers and technology providers to turn individual platforms into operational capabilities. His perspective spans communications, integration and the practical realities of deploying unmanned systems in demanding environments. Kenneth Hubner | Group Chief Product Officer, NORTHCOM Kenneth leads NORTHCOM's product, solution and service portfolio across critical communications, working with government authorities, public safety organisations and companies operating critical infrastructure. He brings a broader perspective on connectivity, interoperability and the move towards integrated networks and operational capabilities. LEARN MORE www.northcomsolutions.com More episodes: damcellular.com/podcast

