The Evolution of Aerial Threats and Their Implications on Army Operations

Abstract The increasing evolution of aerial threats presents an ever-growing challenge for force protection. The accelerated development of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) and long-range precision strikes highlights the urgency of developing comprehensive air defense doctrines. This paper explores the nature of these threats and their implications, particularly in the Ukrainian theater of operations, where emerging threats from UAS, artillery, and combined arms tactics are increasingly being used to overwhelm the maneuver of military forces and assets. By leveraging historical data, threat analyses, and military doctrines, this article aims to highlight how armed forces can be better prepared to counter these threats, focusing on leadership, training, and the integration of technologies such as short-range air defense for maneuver (M-SHORAD). The joint nature of military actions will need to manifest as swiftly as possible, not only at the strategic and operational levels but starting with small group, crew-aircraft combinations.