[cuban leaf]

There are related videos that are equally impressive.

As exciting as this is, it is still in the “cheating” phase. That is, notice the sheets. It is so a computer can control all of them individually by seeing them against the white sheets.

IOW, they are not acting on their own. Rather, a single “brain” in the main computer is controlling all of them.

[DBrow]

“As exciting as this is, it is still in the “cheating” phase.”

I also noted the special lights mounted above the sheets, looked like IR seen through a digital cam.

Not field-ready, but impressive nontheless.

[St_Thomas_Aquinas]

I think the sheets are there so we can see them.

[steve86]

IOW, they are not acting on their own. Rather, a single “brain” in the main computer is controlling all of them

What you say may be true regarding this demonstration but off-the-shelf R/C gear can be programmed to do all of this except maybe for the close formation flying (and that isn't far away -- just a matter of further miniaturization of electronics and sensors). What will be more impressive (and creepy) will be autonomous decision-making and goal-seeking. Rumors military RPVs can do this now.

[Travis McGee]

Very interesting point. Thanks.