From the smoke-filled skies above Fleurus in 1794 to the buzzing wooden Kettering Bug of 1918, militaries have long searched for ways to see and strike without risking pilots. Balloons, target drones, and early reconnaissance craft were fragile, often flawed, yet each altered the rhythm of warfare by extending vision and reach. This extended podcast episode builds on the written Trackpads article, tracing the ancestry of unmanned aerial systems and showing why these early machines mattered in shaping campaigns, doctrine, and soldier experience.
Listeners will gain more than dates and designs—they’ll hear the battlefield come alive through vivid narration: the sway of a balloon basket under fire, the nerve of observers guiding artillery by telegraph, and the eerie spectacle of pilotless planes wobbling skyward. With added depth beyond the article, this episode reveals leadership lessons, tactical shifts, and the human factor that defined drones before drones. Produced by Trackpads.com.
What is Trackpads?
Step into the world of military history and strategy with Trackpads. This weekly podcast transforms insightful articles into engaging audio episodes, making it easier than ever to learn about the military, history, and beyond, wherever you are. Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a military aficionado, or just curious about the stories and lessons behind the action, Trackpads delivers a compelling mix of education and entertainment. Listen on the go and stay connected to the past, present, and future of the military.