Internet of things as a tool for ensuring material security of Military Units and Institutions

Abstract: Material security of military units and institutions is one of the determinants of the ability to carry out combat tasks. It will be possible to provide it, among other Things, by obtaining information on the existing material needs and the possibility of meeting them. This information can be obtained through the use of technologically advanced technologies such as the Internet of Things. The aim of the article is to publish the results of research indicating whether and to what extent the Internet of Things will determine the logistical security of military units and institutions. In order to achieve this goal, a general research problem has been identified in the form of a question: "How will the Internet of Things affect the acquisition of information necessary to make decisions regarding the satisfaction of the material needs of military units and institutions"? The solution to the general research problem was achieved by refining it with four specific research problems. Theoretical methods (analysis, synthesis) supplemented by an empirical method – participant observation – were used to solve them. An important item in the research process were the results of surveys conducted with persons performing tasks related to ensuring material security in military units and institutions. The results obtained in the course of the research clearly indicate the importance of information for decision-making related to meeting the material needs of military units and institutions. On the other hand, the ability to provide material resources will depend not only on the resources at hand, but mainly on the time of obtaining information on the occurrence of needs in a specific place and time. This requirement can be met through the use of modern technologies such as the Internet of Things. In addition to the undoubted benefits, the results of the study also pointed to the possibility of threats during the use of the Internet of Things. Therefore, it is necessary to balance the benefits and threats and make a decision on the possibility of implementing the Internet of Things for solutions supporting the implementation of material security tasks for military units and institutions.