Small Aerial Drones ‒ Modelers of Land Forces Tactics in Contemporary and Future Warfare

Abstract In light of the swift advancement of drone technology and the growing deployment of small Unmanned Aerial Systems (sUAS), land forces are faced with fundamental challenges and opportunities that significantly transform the mode of action and tactics used on the battlefield of contemporary and future warfare. In our paper, we explore the transformative effects of sUAS on the actions of combat forces, combat support forces and military logistics of land forces. We consider both the role of sUAS in enhancing operational capabilities ‒ through advanced reconnaissance, continuous surveillance, precision strikes, force protection, rapid mobility, and the safeguarding of routes and supply depots ‒ and the risks associated with their potential exploitation by enemy forces. Thus, we address essential tactical scenarios in which we analyze how sUAS can decisively influence the actions of all types of forces within the land forces. The study also underlines the imperative of updating doctrines and operational frameworks of land force structures for the effective integration of emerging technologies and the development of adequate protective measures, essential for ensuring a sustainable tactical advantage in future conflicts.