The Role of Media and Technology in Contemporary Warfare

Abstract This study aimed to identify the impact of the use of mass media and technologies to shape public opinion in modern military conflicts. The methodology included a content analysis of news related to the war, information campaigns of such countries as Yugoslavia, Chechnya, Georgia, Iraq, and Ukraine from 1991 to 2024, and an analysis of technologies that changed the nature of information wars, such as Bayraktar TB2, NotPetya, Industroyer, Global Positioning System (GPS) navigation, and satellites. The results of the study demonstrated that the role of mass media and technology in modern warfare is significant, as they are becoming the main methods for influencing public opinion and shaping the information field. Technologies provide quick access to information but also pose risks to its reliability. To reduce this impact, it is necessary to introduce stricter ethical standards for journalists and media organizations, ensure transparency of information processes, and actively improve media literacy. The study proved that the media and technology can also have a positive impact in modern wars, contributing to the rapid dissemination of truthful information, supporting the morale of the population and the military, and mobilizing international support.