An Investigating the use of UAVs in the field of military and national security

Abstract

Military drones, also referred to as Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), have become integral elements of modern military operations, offering capabilities in intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and combat while minimizing human risk. Their prominence in global military strategies is steadily rising as technological advancements continue.

The historical trajectory of military drone technology extends back to the early 20th century, initially employed for target practice and surveillance. Significant milestones include the development of remotely piloted aircraft during World War II, the utilization of drones for surveillance in the Cold War era, and the present era characterized by sophisticated, autonomous UAVs.

Military drones encompass various categories, each designed for specific objectives, such as reconnaissance for intelligence gathering, surveillance for area monitoring, combat for direct engagement, and armed drones capable of precision strikes.

Drones play a pivotal role in enhancing national security by facilitating border surveillance, protecting critical infrastructure, and swiftly responding to disasters, offering real-time situational awareness for border defence, infrastructure security, and crisis management.

The advantages of military drones are evident, particularly in minimizing human risk, cost-effectiveness, and adaptability in hostile environments. Nonetheless, ethical concerns arise, encompassing issues such as civilian casualties, privacy breaches, and the ethical implications of autonomous drones making life-and-death decisions independently.

Recent technological strides have revolutionized military drone capabilities, introducing innovations like autonomous drones, swarming capabilities for coordinated actions, and AI-driven decision-making systems, enhancing their versatility and effectiveness.