Portal de Periódicos da CAPES

SPECIFICITY IN BUILDING AND USING AIR DEFENSE SYSTEM IN COMBAT WITH TACTICAL UNMANNED AERIAL VEHICLES

2017; Volume: 19; Issue: 2 Linguagem: Inglês

2545-4439

Atanas Atanasov, Stoyan Chanev,

Military Technology and Strategies

In modern conflicts with varying intensity there is a widespread use of robotic systems, which allows to minimize the damage, especially in terms of staff, efficiency gains and the subjective factor in using weapon platforms decreases. This trend is strongly influenced also by the use of tactical unmanned aerial vehicles (TUAV), mostly by observing and controlling the battlefield. The report contains a classification of TUAVs and their combat use is considered. The advantages and disadvantages were considered and an evaluation was made concerning the radiolocation observation methods, Measurement and signature intelligence (MASINT), optoelectronic observation and zenith complexes types for counteraction. Duе to limited capabilities of the forces and the resources of Air Defense, it is necessary to fine-tune the composition of those capable of successfully countering small-sized UAVs, to outline the ways and means of action to prevent non-sanctioned observation and control of the battlefield. This leads to building an air defense system, which is characterized by a number of features - in terms of architecture, the interaction between the components of the system and forces from other armies - aviation, artillery and means for Measurement and signature intelligence (MASINT). Emphasis is given to the complex application of the active and passive components for air defense, also the impossibility of centralized management of the Air Force assets and means, and the need to create separate temporary organizational units using special tactical means acting on predefined rules in order to accelerate and increase efficiency. It is also necessary to expand and saturate the visual observation system with technical means for optoelectronic observation. These features require modifications in command and management structures, characterized by a reduction in hierarchical levels, a certain autonomy in decision-making for combat operations, and the establishment of a common body for command and management of forces and means of combating TUAVs to collect and summarize the information and direct efforts in line with the overall plan of the operation and in the interest of all participants. On the basis of the conclusions drawn, there are outlined recommendations and trends for counteracting the TUAVs.