THE ROLE OF UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES IN MODERN MILITARY OPERATIONS

This article examines the role and strategic importance of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) in modern military operations. In recent decades, rapid technological development has significantly transformed the nature of warfare, and UAV technologies have become one of the key components of contemporary military systems. The study analyzes the operational capabilities, advantages, limitations, and future prospects of UAV deployment in military activities. Particular attention is paid to the use of drones in reconnaissance, surveillance, intelligence gathering, target acquisition, precision strikes, border security, and electronic warfare operations.The research is based on qualitative and analytical methods, including comparative analysis of modern military conflicts and examination of scientific literature related to drone warfare and autonomous military systems. The study highlights that UAVs improve battlefield awareness, increase operational flexibility, reduce risks to military personnel, and lower operational costs compared to traditional military aircraft. Modern drones equipped with advanced sensors, artificial intelligence technologies, thermal imaging systems, and autonomous navigation capabilities provide real-time intelligence and support rapid military decision-making processes. The article also discusses the growing integration of artificial intelligence and autonomous systems into UAV technologies, emphasizing their impact on future military strategies and defense doctrines. At the same time, the research identifies important ethical, legal, and cybersecurity challenges associated with drone warfare, including civilian safety concerns, autonomous weapon systems, communication vulnerabilities, and cyber threats. These issues demonstrate the necessity of international legal regulations and stronger cybersecurity measures for the safe and responsible use of UAV technologies. The findings of the study confirm that UAV systems have fundamentally transformed modern military operations and become indispensable tools in contemporary warfare. The article concludes that further technological innovation, integration of artificial intelligence, and development of secure autonomous systems will continue to shape the future of military operations and global defense strategies.