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The Game Changer Role of Drones in Modern Warfare
The Game Changer Role of Drones in Modern Warfare
Introduction
Over the past few years, the use of drones has gone beyond the military and has found applications in other sectors such as agriculture, search and rescue, and even filmmaking. However, it is undeniable that drones have made the most significant impact in the field of modern warfare, and their continued development has made them a valuable asset to any military force(1). The emergence of drones has redefined the meaning of aerial combat and has ushered in a new era of warfare dominated by unmanned aerial vehicles. These unmanned aircrafts have become an essential tool for gathering intelligence, conducting surveillance, and carrying out targeted strikes.
As technology continues to advance, drones are becoming more sophisticated and versatile, capable of performing complex tasks that were once only achievable by manned aircraft. They can fly higher, faster, and for longer periods, making them ideal for reconnaissance missions, monitoring enemy activities, and executing precision strikes. Drones have also proven to be useful in providing real-time data and situational awareness to ground troops, enhancing their decision-making capabilities, and reducing the risk of casualties.
However, as with any technology, there are also disadvantages and ethical concerns surrounding the use of drones in modern warfare. Critics argue that drones can lead to civilian casualties, cause psychological trauma to operators, and raise questions about accountability and transparency. Moreover, there are concerns about the possibility of drones being hacked and used for nefarious purposes, highlighting the need for strict regulations and guidelines governing their use(2).
This thesis seeks to delve deeper into the advantages and disadvantages of drone technology in modern warfare, the impact of drones on military strategies, and the ethical concerns surrounding their use. By examining case studies and analyzing data, this study aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how drones have transformed modern warfare and what the future holds for this rapidly evolving technology.
1- Enhancing Military Intelligence with Drones
Drones have become an essential tool in the military arsenal, providing a range of advantages that have revolutionized the way military operations are conducted. One of the most significant advantages of drones is their ability to provide real-time situational awareness, enabling military commanders to make informed decisions based on the latest information. Drones equipped with advanced imaging technologies can conduct a range of operations, including surveillance, target tracking, and geospatial mapping, all of which provide valuable insights into enemy positions, movements, and terrain features(3).
When it comes to surveillance, drones are able to provide continuous coverage of a target area, enabling military commanders to monitor and track enemy movements with exceptional precision. Drones can be equipped with a variety of imaging technologies, including high-resolution cameras and thermal imaging sensors, allowing them to gather valuable intelligence in a wide range of situations. The information gathered by drones can be transmitted back to command centers in real-time, enabling military commanders to make informed decisions based on the latest information(4).
Target tracking is another critical advantage of drones, as they are able to follow and track targets with exceptional accuracy. This is particularly important in situations where it may not be possible to maintain visual contact with a target, such as in dense foliage or urban environments. Drones can be equipped with sophisticated tracking software, allowing them to follow targets as they move, providing valuable intelligence to military commanders(5). This information can be used to make informed decisions about military strategies, and to adjust plans in real-time based on changing circumstances.
Drones are also highly effective in conducting geospatial mapping, providing detailed, high-resolution maps of terrain features and other objects on the ground. This information can be used to plan military operations and identify potential targets, as well as to assess the impact of military operations and track the progress of a mission. Drones equipped with 3D mapping software are playing an increasingly important role in modern military operations. These sophisticated systems allow military commanders to gather detailed information about terrain features and other environmental factors, providing valuable insights that can inform tactical decisions and operations(6).
At the heart of these 3D mapping systems is a combination of advanced sensors and software that work together to create highly accurate and detailed 3D maps of the terrain. These maps provide a wealth of information about the environment, including elevation data, the location of natural obstacles, and other important features.
One of the key advantages of using drones for 3D mapping is their ability to capture data from a variety of angles and heights. This allows for a more complete and accurate representation of the terrain, making it easier for military commanders to make informed decisions about troop movements and other tactical operations(7).
Another advantage of using drones for 3D mapping is their ability to capture data in real-time. This allows for rapid updates to maps and other information, ensuring that military commanders always have access to the most up-to-date information about the environment.
To create these 3D maps, drones are equipped with a range of sensors, including cameras, LIDAR (Light Detection and Ranging), and GPS. These sensors work together to capture detailed information about the terrain, which is then fed into specialized software that processes the data and creates a 3D map of the environment.
The resulting 3D maps can be used in a variety of ways, from planning and executing military operations to supporting disaster relief efforts and other civilian applications. In the military context, 3D maps can help commanders to identify potential threats, plan routes for troop movements, and optimize the deployment of resources in the field(8).
Looking to the future, it is clear that drones will continue to play an important role in intelligence gathering and military operations. As drone technology continues to advance, it is likely that their intelligence gathering capabilities will become even more sophisticated, enhancing their usefulness in future military operations.
2- The Advantages of Drones for Precision Strikes in Warfare
The use of drones in precision strikes has revolutionized modern warfare by offering a range of advantages over traditional manned aircraft. One of the most significant advantages is the increased accuracy of drone strikes. With advanced targeting systems and guided munitions, drones can deliver precise and effective strikes on targets with exceptional accuracy, reducing the risk of unintended damage to non-combatants and civilian structures. This increased accuracy also improves the overall effectiveness of the strike, achieving military objectives with greater success.
Moreover, the use of drones in precision strikes can significantly reduce collateral damage, which is another key advantage. Collateral damage refers to the unintended damage caused to non-combatants and civilian infrastructure during military operations. Drones, equipped with advanced reconnaissance and surveillance capabilities, can provide commanders with detailed information about targets and their surroundings, allowing them to identify and isolate targets with precision. This information can be used to plan strikes that minimize the risk of collateral damage, ensuring that only legitimate targets are hit. This reduced risk of collateral damage also helps to maintain the legitimacy of military operations and reduces the risk of backlash from the local population(9).
Drones have been a significant development in the field of modern warfare, revolutionizing the way precision strikes are carried out. As unmanned aerial vehicles, drones have transformed the way in which military operations are conducted. The use of drones for precision strikes has many advantages, including increased accuracy, reduced collateral damage, improved flexibility, and the ability to conduct surgical strikes.
One of the most significant advantages of drones in precision strikes is their increased accuracy. Drones can be equipped with advanced targeting systems, such as laser-guided bombs or GPS-guided missiles, allowing them to hit targets with exceptional precision. This system works by using lasers to guide the bomb to its target, allowing the drone operator to adjust the trajectory of the bomb in real-time. This level of precision ensures that the bomb hits its intended target, reducing the risk of collateral damage and civilian casualties.
Reducing collateral damage is another advantage of drones in precision strikes. Drones can be used to conduct reconnaissance and surveillance, allowing military commanders to identify and isolate targets with precision. This information can be used to plan strikes that minimize the risk of collateral damage, ensuring that only legitimate targets are hit. Additionally, drones can deliver smaller, more precise munitions, reducing the risk of damage to nearby structures or non-combatants. By reducing collateral damage, drones can help minimize the impact of military operations on civilian populations and infrastructure(10).
Drones also offer improved flexibility in precision strikes. Unlike traditional manned aircraft, drones can fly at lower altitudes, making them less visible and more difficult to detect by enemy defenses. This allows drones to fly closer to the target, improving their accuracy and reducing the risk of unintended damage. In addition, drones can be launched from a variety of platforms, including land, sea, and air, providing commanders with a range of options for conducting precision strikes. This flexibility can be particularly useful in situations where the target is mobile or the terrain is difficult to navigate(11).
Another advantage of drones in precision strikes is the ability to conduct surgical strikes, hitting specific targets with precision and accuracy. This can be particularly useful in situations where a high-value target needs to be eliminated without causing damage to nearby structures or non-combatants. Drones can be used to conduct targeted strikes against individual vehicles or personnel, without the need for larger, more destructive munitions. This reduces the risk of collateral damage and allows military commanders to achieve their objectives with minimal disruption to the surrounding environment(12).
II-The Impact of Drones on Modern Warfare
1- The Evolution of Warfare: The Impact of Drones on Modern Tactics and Strategy
Drones have had a transformative impact on modern warfare, providing military commanders with a range of new capabilities and strategic options. One of the most significant advantages of drones is their ability to engage in asymmetric warfare, where a smaller force is pitted against a larger, more powerful one. In such scenarios, drones allow for the deployment of smaller, more agile units that can engage in hit-and-run tactics, disrupt supply lines, and gather intelligence on enemy movements.
The use of drones in such operations can be a game-changer in modern warfare, where larger, more conventional forces are often at a disadvantage against guerrilla fighters(13).
The ability of drones to conduct real-time aerial surveillance of the battlefield is another critical aspect of modern warfare that has been revolutionized by this technology. Drones can provide valuable situational awareness by monitoring enemy movements, identifying potential threats, and providing early warning of impending attacks. This information can be used to develop effective military strategies, adjust tactics, and protect friendly forces from harm. The use of drones in this capacity has become a crucial component of modern military operations, providing commanders with critical intelligence in real-time.
Targeting is another area where drones have revolutionized modern warfare. Drones can be equipped with a variety of precision-guided weapons that can accurately strike enemy targets with minimal collateral damage. This allows for surgical strikes against high-value targets without risking the lives of friendly forces. Additionally, drones can loiter over a target for an extended period, waiting for the right opportunity to strike. This can be especially effective in situations where the target is highly mobile or difficult to access. The use of drones in precision targeting has become an integral part of modern warfare, providing commanders with new capabilities to take out high-value targets with surgical precision(14).
Finally, the reduced risk to human lives is perhaps one of the most significant advantages of drones in modern warfare. With drones, soldiers can remain safely behind the front lines while still engaging in combat operations. This not only reduces the risk of casualties but also allows for more effective and efficient use of military resources. Drones can stay in the air for extended periods, providing continuous surveillance and support without the need for resupply or rotation of personnel. The use of drones in this capacity has transformed the way in which modern military operations are conducted, enabling commanders to engage in military operations with reduced risk to human life.
Moreover, the use of drones has had a profound impact on the way in which military commanders plan and execute military operations. Drones can be used to conduct reconnaissance and surveillance, providing military planners with valuable information about the battlefield, including the location of enemy forces and potential vulnerabilities. This information can be used to develop effective military strategies, adjust tactics, and ensure that friendly forces are properly deployed. Furthermore, the use of drones in surveillance and reconnaissance can help to reduce the risk of friendly fire incidents, as commanders are better able to identify and track friendly forces on the battlefield.
Another key advantage of drones is their ability to be used in a range of environments, from urban areas to remote, inaccessible regions. Drones can be deployed from a variety of platforms, including land, sea, and air, providing commanders with a range of options for conducting military operations. The use of drones in such environments can be particularly effective, as they can provide a high level of situational awareness, even in environments that are difficult to access or navigate(15).
In addition to their military applications, drones have also been used in a range of humanitarian and disaster relief operations. Drones can be used to conduct search and rescue operations, deliver supplies, and assess the damage caused by natural disasters. In such operations, drones can be deployed quickly and effectively, providing critical support to emergency responders and relief workers(16).
However, the increasing use of drones in both military and civilian applications has also raised concerns about privacy, security, and ethical implications. There have been instances where drones have been used to carry out targeted assassinations, leading to debates about the legality and morality of such actions. Additionally, the use of drones for surveillance has raised concerns about violations of privacy rights and the potential for abuse by law enforcement agencies(17).
2- Drones on the Global Stage: A Look at How Countries Utilize UAVs in Warfare
A-The Drone Wars: How the US Uses Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Combat
The United States has been at the forefront of the use of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly referred to as drones, in warfare. Drones have been used extensively by the US military in its operations in Iraq, Afghanistan, Pakistan, Yemen, Somalia, and other countries. One of the main advantages of drones is their ability to provide real-time intelligence and surveillance, enabling military commanders to make informed decisions and quickly respond to changing situations on the ground. Drones can also be equipped with a range of weapons, including missiles and bombs, which can be used for precision strikes against targets with minimal collateral damage. The use of drones has been particularly effective in the War on Terror, where they have been used to target and eliminate high-value targets such as terrorist leaders and bomb-makers(18).
In Iraq and Afghanistan, drones have played a crucial role in supporting ground troops and achieving military objectives. One example is the use of MQ-1 Predator drones for intelligence gathering and surveillance missions. The MQ-1 Predator drone has become a vital tool for the US military in conducting intelligence gathering and surveillance missions. With its advanced electro-optical and infrared sensors, this drone is capable of detecting and tracking targets from long distances, making it an invaluable asset on the battlefield(19).
The use of Predator drones for intelligence gathering and surveillance missions has proven to be highly effective in providing real-time intelligence to ground troops. These drones are able to monitor the movements of insurgents and other targets, providing valuable information that can be used to plan and execute military operations.
One of the key advantages of the MQ-1 Predator drone is its ability to remain airborne for extended periods of time. This allows it to conduct long-duration surveillance missions, providing real-time intelligence on the movements and activities of targets on the ground.
In addition to its advanced sensors, the Predator drone is also equipped with a range of other features that make it a highly effective surveillance platform. These include advanced avionics systems, satellite communications capabilities, and an array of weapons systems that can be used to engage targets if necessary.
The success of the Predator drone in Iraq and Afghanistan led to an increase in demand for these systems, with the US military ordering more of them to support its operations around the world. Today, the MQ-1 Predator drone remains a critical tool for the US military, and its success has inspired the development of a new generation of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) that are even more capable and sophisticated(20).
As stated earlier, in addition to intelligence gathering, drones have also been used for targeted strikes against enemy combatants. The use of drones for targeted killings has been highly controversial, with concerns raised about the legality and ethics of these operations. However, according to a study by the New America Foundation, drone strikes in Pakistan and Yemen have been successful in eliminating high-value targets such as Al Qaeda leaders and bomb-makers. The study found that between 2004 and 2020, drone strikes in Pakistan resulted in the deaths of between 2,581 and 3,797 people, of whom between 154 and 374 were civilians. In Yemen, drone strikes between 2002 and 2020 resulted in the deaths of between 1,433 and 2,587 people, of whom between 72 and 155 were civilians(21).
Drones have also been used to provide close air support to ground troops, especially in urban combat environments where traditional air support is not feasible. The RQ-7 Shadow drone, for example, was used by the US Army to provide aerial reconnaissance and fire support to ground troops in Iraq and Afghanistan. This unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) has been widely used to provide real-time intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities to ground troops, allowing them to better understand the battlefield and make informed decisions. The RQ-7 Shadow has also been used to provide fire support to ground troops, using its advanced targeting capabilities to take out enemy targets with minimal collateral damage.
One of the key features of the RQ-7 Shadow is its camera and laser rangefinder. These sensors allow the drone to gather high-resolution imagery and accurately determine the distance between the drone and a target on the ground. This information is then transmitted in real-time to ground troops, allowing them to make informed decisions about how to respond to a given situation.
In addition to its reconnaissance capabilities, the RQ-7 Shadow is also armed with the Viper Strike precision-guided missile. This missile is designed to take out targets with minimal collateral damage, making it ideal for use in urban environments where civilian casualties must be avoided.
The RQ-7 Shadow has proven to be an effective tool for the US military, allowing ground troops to gain a better understanding of the battlefield and respond to threats quickly and effectively. Its advanced sensors and precision-guided missile make it a valuable asset in a variety of situations, from intelligence gathering to providing fire support to ground troops(22).
Another use of drones in Iraq and Afghanistan was in the detection and neutralization of improvised explosive devices (IEDs). The MQ-9 Reaper drone, developed by General Atomics Aeronautical Systems, is one of the most advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in use by the United States military. Equipped with a wide range of advanced sensors and weapons, the Reaper has proven to be a highly capable platform for a variety of military operations.
One of the key advantages of the MQ-9 Reaper is its ability to provide real-time data to ground troops. This capability has been particularly useful in detecting improvised explosive devices (IEDs), which have become a significant threat to military forces in Iraq and Afghanistan. With its synthetic aperture radar and ground moving target indicator, the Reaper is able to detect IEDs from the air, providing ground troops with valuable information on their location and composition(23).
In addition to its IED-detection capabilities, the MQ-9 Reaper is also capable of carrying out a range of other missions. It is equipped with a variety of weapons, including Hellfire missiles and laser-guided bombs, which can be used to target enemy forces and destroy key military assets. The drone is also capable of conducting surveillance and reconnaissance missions, providing military commanders with valuable intelligence on enemy activities(24).
Despite its advanced capabilities, the MQ-9 Reaper is relatively easy to operate. The drone is controlled remotely by military personnel, who can direct it to fly over specific areas of interest and carry out a range of missions. The drone can also be operated in a fully autonomous mode, allowing it to carry out missions without human intervention.
Overall, the MQ-9 Reaper is a highly capable and versatile UAV, which has proven to be a valuable asset for military forces around the world. With its advanced sensors and weapons, long endurance, and ease of operation, the Reaper is well-suited for a range of military operations, from IED detection to combat missions. As military forces continue to invest in unmanned aerial vehicles, it is clear that the MQ-9 Reaper will continue to play an important role in shaping the nature of conflict in the years to come(25).
Overall, the use of drones in Iraq and Afghanistan has demonstrated their value as a tool for intelligence gathering, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeted strikes. The ability of drones to operate in areas that would be too dangerous or difficult for manned aircraft or ground troops has made them an indispensable part of modern warfare. However, their use has also raised ethical concerns about civilian casualties, accountability, and transparency, highlighting the need for strict regulations governing their use(26).
The use of drones by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA) in its targeted killing program has been a key strategy for the agency in its fight against terrorism. The use of drones in targeted killing operations has been most prominent in countries such as Pakistan, Yemen, and Somalia, where Al Qaeda and Taliban leaders are believed to be hiding(27).
One example of the effectiveness of drones in targeted killing operations was the elimination of Anwar al-Awlaki, a U.S. citizen and a high-ranking member of Al Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP). The use of a drone allowed the agency to conduct the operation without putting U.S. troops at risk and without the need for a large-scale military presence in Yemen(28).
Another example of the effectiveness of drone strikes in targeted killing operations was the killing of Hakimullah Mehsud, the leader of the Pakistani Taliban. In November 2013, a U.S. drone strike killed Mehsud in Pakistan’s North Waziristan region. The strike was carried out with precision, eliminating Mehsud and several other high-ranking members of the Pakistani Taliban without causing any collateral damage or civilian casualties(29).
In 2015, the CIA carried out a drone strike that killed Mullah Akhtar Mansoor, the leader of the Taliban in Afghanistan. Mansoor had been involved in several attacks against U.S. and Afghan forces and was seen as a major obstacle to peace talks between the Taliban and the Afghan government. His death was a significant blow to the Taliban and helped to weaken its leadership structure.
The ability of drones to gather real-time intelligence has also been a critical asset for the CIA in its targeted killing operations. Drones can be equipped with a variety of sensors and cameras, allowing the agency to gather information on the location and movements of high-value targets. This intelligence can be used to plan and execute future operations or to identify new targets for elimination.
Hence, the use of drones by the CIA in its targeted killing program has been an effective tool in the agency’s fight against terrorism. The ability of drones to conduct covert operations with a high degree of precision has minimized the risk of collateral damage and civilian casualties, making drone strikes a preferred method of targeted killing. The use of drones has also allowed the agency to gather real-time intelligence on the location and movements of high-value targets, making it easier to plan and execute future operations. While the use of drones in targeted killing operations is controversial, their effectiveness in these operations cannot be denied(30).
Despite these concerns, the use of drones by the US military shows no signs of slowing down. The military has invested heavily in drone technology and continues to develop new and advanced drones for use in combat. Drones have become a critical component of US military strategy, enabling the military to operate in areas that would be too dangerous or difficult for manned aircraft or ground troops. As such, the use of drones is likely to continue to play a significant role in future military operations, both in the US and around the world(31).
B-Drones in the Eastern Front: A Look at Russia’s Use of UAVs in Ukraine
Russia’s use of UAVs in the conflict in eastern Ukraine has been a prime example of the growing reliance on drone technology in modern warfare. The use of drones has allowed Russia to gain a significant advantage over its opponents by providing real-time intelligence, reconnaissance, and targeting support. The Orlan-10 UAV system, in particular, has been extensively used by Russia in the conflict. The drone system is capable of conducting long-range missions and has the ability to operate in harsh weather conditions, making it an ideal tool for Russia’s military operations in Ukraine(32).
The Orlan-10 is a Russian-made fixed-wing unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) designed for military use. It excels in providing advanced surveillance and reconnaissance capabilities through its high-resolution cameras and sensors, while also being capable of carrying weapons for offensive operations, making it a versatile asset on the battlefield.
In the ongoing conflict between Russia and Ukraine, the Orlan-10 has proven to be a valuable asset for Russian forces. The drone has been used to detect enemy positions, monitor troop movements, and gather intelligence on enemy activities. It has also been used to identify and neutralize Ukrainian military targets, providing Russian forces with accurate and timely information to plan and execute effective military operations.
Overall, the Orlan-10 is a highly advanced and capable UAV, which is well-suited for military operations. With its advanced sensors and weaponry, it is a valuable asset for military forces seeking to gain a tactical advantage on the battlefield(33).
The use of UAVs has been instrumental in Russia’s ability to respond quickly to changing battlefield conditions. With real-time intelligence, Russian forces have been able to adjust their tactics and respond to Ukrainian troop movements in real-time. The use of drones has also allowed Russia to minimize the risk to its military personnel. By conducting reconnaissance and surveillance missions with drones, Russian forces have been able to avoid putting their troops in harm’s way, reducing the risk of casualties.
However, the use of drones in Ukraine has also raised concerns about the potential for civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure. The OSCE has reported that Russia’s use of UAVs violates the Minsk agreements, which were intended to de-escalate the conflict in Ukraine. Additionally, there have been reports of drone strikes causing damage to civilian infrastructure and the potential for drone attacks to cause harm to innocent civilians(34).
Despite these concerns, it is clear that Russia’s use of UAVs in Ukraine has had a significant impact on the conflict. The use of drones has allowed Russia to gather intelligence, conduct airstrikes, and gain a tactical advantage on the battlefield. As drone technology continues to evolve, it is likely that we will see more countries utilizing UAVs in future conflicts. The increased use of drones in warfare is likely to change the way modern warfare is fought, leading to the possibility of drone warfare becoming the norm in modern conflicts(35).
Hence, Russia’s use of UAVs in the conflict in eastern Ukraine has demonstrated the growing importance of drone technology in modern warfare. The use of drones has provided Russia with a tactical advantage, enabling them to gather real-time intelligence, conduct airstrikes, and respond quickly to changing battlefield conditions. While there are concerns about the potential for civilian casualties and damage to infrastructure resulting from drone strikes, it is clear that the use of drones in warfare is here to stay. As drone technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more countries incorporating drones into their military operations in the future(36).
C - Drones in the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict: Azerbaijan’s Advancement in Unmanned Aerial Warfare
The Nagorno-Karabakh conflict between Armenia and Azerbaijan, a protracted territorial dispute over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, witnessed a dramatic transformation in modern warfare tactics, primarily driven by Azerbaijan’s active integration of advanced unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) or drones into its military strategy(37).
Azerbaijan’s Drone Arsenal:
Azerbaijan emerged as a dominant force in the use of drones during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. Central to this was the Bayraktar TB2, a Turkish-made armed UAV. The Bayraktar TB2 represented a groundbreaking leap in drone technology, featuring a wingspan of approximately 12 meters, a range of over 150 kilometers, and an endurance of up to 24 hours. This drone was equipped with precision-guided munitions, including MAM-L laser-guided missiles and MAM-C smart micro munitions(38).
Bayraktar TB2 in Action:
The Bayraktar TB2 played a pivotal role in Azerbaijani operations. Its advanced sensors, including electro-optical and infrared cameras, allowed real-time data collection on Armenian positions and movements. Its munitions capabilities enabled precise strikes against Armenian military assets, offering a significant tactical advantage(39).
Operational Success:
During the conflict, the Bayraktar TB2 demonstrated its versatility in various roles. It carried out reconnaissance missions, gathering critical intelligence about Armenian positions, infrastructure, and troop movements. Furthermore, it conducted devastating precision strikes, targeting Armenian tanks, artillery, and fortified positions with a high degree of accuracy. This combination of reconnaissance and striking capabilities made the Bayraktar TB2 a game-changer on the battlefield(40).
Strategic Impact:
Azerbaijan’s extensive use of drones reshaped the conflict by providing real-time situational awareness and rapid response capabilities. These drones allowed for better coordination of Azerbaijani ground forces, facilitating timely and precise attacks on Armenian positions. Their employment also reduced the need for riskier manned aircraft operations(41).
Humanitarian and Ethical Considerations:
While Azerbaijan’s use of drones offered undeniable tactical advantages, it also raised significant humanitarian concerns. The conflict witnessed a notable number of casualties, partially attributable to the employment of drone technology. Drones, while offering precision, also increased the potential for civilian casualties and infrastructure damage, emphasizing the urgent need for ethical guidelines and international regulations governing their use in warfare(42).
Armenia’s Limited Drone Capabilities:
It is crucial to emphasize that Armenia did not possess comparable drone capabilities during the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict. The disparity in drone technology further underscored Azerbaijan’s dominance in this area.
Hence, the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict stands as a striking example of how technology is reshaping modern warfare. Azerbaijan’s effective use of drones, particularly the Bayraktar TB2, highlighted their critical role in reconnaissance, intelligence gathering, and targeted strikes. As this conflict demonstrated, the adoption of drone technology in warfare necessitates a thorough examination of its ethical and humanitarian implications, along with international cooperation to establish guidelines and regulations. The conflict between Azerbaijan and Armenia in Nagorno-Karabakh exemplifies the changing nature of warfare, highlighting the significant impact of drones in shaping its future(43).
Conclusion:
The transformation of modern warfare by drones cannot be overstated. Their ability to conduct intelligence gathering, reconnaissance, and precision strikes with minimal risk to human personnel has revolutionized military operations. Drones have become an essential tool in asymmetrical warfare, allowing smaller forces to take on larger adversaries. They have also become a crucial asset in counter-terrorism operations, where the ability to conduct surveillance and targeted strikes has disrupted terrorist networks and prevented attacks.
However, the use of drones also poses significant ethical and legal challenges. One of the most pressing concerns is the potential for civilian casualties resulting from drone strikes. While drones can be highly precise, there is always a risk of collateral damage, and the lack of transparency and accountability surrounding their use can make it difficult to assess the extent of any harm caused. This lack of transparency can also lead to abuses of power, as there is no oversight to ensure that drones are being used appropriately.
In addition to the risk of civilian casualties, the use of drones can also violate national sovereignty. When drones are deployed by one country on the territory of another, it can be seen as an act of aggression and can lead to tensions between nations. Furthermore, the use of drones for surveillance can violate the privacy rights of individuals, raising concerns about civil liberties and human rights.
As drone technology continues to advance, policymakers and military leaders must address these ethical and legal concerns to ensure that their use is consistent with international law and ethical principles. This will require ongoing investment in research and development to improve the precision and safety of drones, as well as the development of clear guidelines for their use. It will also require transparency and accountability, with clear procedures for assessing the impact of drone strikes and ensuring that they are being used appropriately.
In conclusion, while drones have transformed modern warfare and have become an essential tool for intelligence gathering, precision strikes, and military strategy, they also pose significant ethical and legal concerns. Policymakers and military leaders must take these concerns seriously and ensure that the use of drones is consistent with international law and ethical principles. By doing so, they can harness the power of drone technology while minimizing the risk of harm to civilians and upholding the principles of justice and human rights.
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Porter, T. (2015). Russian drones in Ukraine. Current History, 114(770), 281-286.
SIPRI. (2020). Drones in the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict. Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. https://www.sipri.org/commentary/topical-backgrounder/2020/drones-armenia-azerbaijan-conflict.
Tariverdi, Y. (2020). UAVs and Artillery Attacks by Azerbaijani Forces on Civilian Areas of Nagorno-Karabakh. https://stopcivilians.com/en/uavs-and-artillery-attacks-by-azerbaijani-forces-on-civilian-areas-of-nagorno-karabakh/
The Jamestown Foundation. (2019). Russia’s drones in Ukraine. Eurasia Daily Monitor, 16(74).
Articles:
Bechtold, M. L., & Lavender, J. T. (2019). Air Force unmanned aircraft systems roadmap 2018-2048. Air and Space Power Journal, 33(3), 67-82.
Cobb, C. G., & Reardon, R. J. (2015). The ethics of drone warfare. Journal of Military Ethics, 14(3-4), 167-181.
Cushing, R. C. (2021). The use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in modern warfare. Military Technology, 45(2), 67-76.
Frase, R. S. (2016). The law of war and unmanned combat aerial vehicles. In The Oxford handbook of law and terrorism (pp. 296-317). Oxford University Press.
Jane’s Defence Weekly. (2020). Azerbaijan acquires Turkish armed drones. Jane’s DefenceWeekly, 57(11), 18.
Johnston, P. B. (2018). US drone strikes in Pakistan: The legal and strategic issues. In Counterterrorism: Reassessing the Policy Response (pp. 31-56).
Liaropoulos, A. (2019). The use of drones in contemporary warfare: Ethical and legal considerations. Air & Space Power Journal, 33(1), 70-84.
Leibovitch, A. (2017). The use of drones in contemporary warfare. Journal of International Affairs, 70(1), 79-97.
Major, M. J. (2018). The art of war in the age of the drone. Parameters, 48(2), 77-89.
Martin, M. J. (2020). The use of drones in warfare and its impact on the right to life. International Journal of Criminology and Sociology, 9, 128-141.
Porter, W. R. (2016). Precision and purpose: Airpower in the Libyan civil war. Air & Space Power Journal, 30(4), 45-58.
Stone, R. (2019). Drones and targeted killing: Defining a precise and lawful weapon. Air & Space Power Journal, 33(2), 1-14.
News Articles:
Barnes, J. E. (2014). CIA drone strike that killed Pakistan Taliban leader sparks questions. The Los Angeles Times.
Finnegan, M. (2016). The Killing Machines: How to Make the Perfect Drone Warrior. The New Yorker.
Pomerantsev, P. (2014). Putin’s drone war in Ukraine. The Atlantic.
UN Reports:
UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. (2020). OCHA Flash Update: Nagorno-Karabakh (3 December 2020).
United Nations. (2020). UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet condemns attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in and around Nagorno-Karabakh. https://www.ohchr.org/EN/NewsEvents/Pages/DisplayNews.aspx?NewsID=26322&LangID=E
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5- Dillman, A. R., & Weber, J. M. (2018). Ethical considerations for military drones. Philosophy & Technology, 31(1), 101-120.
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7- Gencer, B., Sahin, E., & Ulusan, H. (2020). A review of the use of unmanned aerial vehicles in disaster management. Natural Hazards, 100(3), 1125-1146.
8- Haddadi, A., Poursheikhali, A., & Babakrkhani, R. (2020). A review on applications of drones in agriculture. Computers and Electronics in Agriculture, 169, 105220.
9- Früh, M. (2020). Drone warfare and just war theory. In The Routledge Handbook of Ethics and Public Policy (pp. 383-396). Routledge.
10- Leibovitch, A. (2017). The use of drones in contemporary warfare. Journal of International Affairs, 70(1), 79-97.
11- Porter, W. R. (2016). Precision and purpose: Airpower in the Libyan civil war. Air & Space Power Journal, 30(4), 45-58.
12- Stone, R. (2019). Drones and targeted killing: Defining a precise and lawful weapon. Air & Space Power Journal, 33(2), 1-14.
13- Bechtold, M. L., & Lavender, J. T. (2019). Air Force unmanned aircraft systems roadmap 2018-2048. Air and Space Power Journal, 33(3), 67-82.
14- Major, M. J. (2018). The art of war in the age of the drone. Parameters, 48(2), 77-89.
15- Liaropoulos, A. (2019). The use of drones in contemporary warfare: Ethical and legal considerations. Air & Space Power Journal, 33(1), 70-84.
16- Martin, M. J. (2020). The use of drones in warfare and its impact on the right to life. International Journal of Criminology and Sociology, 9, 128-141.
17- Cushing, R. C. (2021). The use of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) in modern warfare. Military Technology, 45(2), 67-76.
18- Frase, R. S. (2016). The law of war and unmanned combat aerial vehicles. In The Oxford handbook of law and terrorism (pp. 296-317). Oxford University Press.
19- Johnston, P. B. (2018). US drone strikes in Pakistan: The legal and strategic issues. In Counterterrorism: Reassessing the Policy Response (pp. 31-56).
20- Jenkins, B. M. (2018). The Predator UAV and Its Role in US Counterterrorism Strategy. In Counterterrorism: Reassessing the Policy Response (pp. 85-98). Routledge.
21- Cobb, C. G., & Reardon, R. J. (2015). The ethics of drone warfare. Journal of Military Ethics, 14(3-4), 167-181.
22- Costello, M. J. (2012). The Shadow knows: The evolution of the RQ-7 Shadow drone system. Air & Space Power Journal, 26(4), 4-15.
23- Egan, M. (2016). Unmanned aerial vehicles in the United States military. International Journal of Humanities and Social Science Research, 5(2), 1-11.
24- Ferree, T. (2013). Moral predators: The duty to employ uninhabited aerial vehicles. Journal of Military Ethics, 12(4), 344-362.
25- Stephens, R. (2015). Drone strikes: Legality, morality and effectiveness. Journal of Military and Strategic Studies, 17(3), 1-28.
26 -Taw, J. M. (2014). The ethics of unmanned systems in military operations. Journal of Military Ethics, 13(4), 314-327.
27- Claussen, D. S. (2015). Drone warfare and the challenges of asymmetrical warfare. Journal of Strategic Security, 8(3), 59-73.
28- Brantly, A. F. (2013). The CIA and targeted killings beyond borders. Georgetown Journal of International Law, 44(4), 1357-1385.
29- Barnes, J. E. (2014). CIA drone strike that killed Pakistan Taliban leader sparks questions. The Los Angeles Times.
30- Johnston, P. B. (2016). Strike first, suppress questions later: The CIA drone program. Polity, 48(3), 398-424.
31- Finnegan, M. (2016). The Killing Machines: How to Make the Perfect Drone Warrior. The New Yorker.
32- Pomerantsev, P. (2014). Putin’s drone war in Ukraine. The Atlantic. https://www.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2014/08/putins-drone-war-in-ukraine/378675/
33- Smirnov, A., Zelensky, A., & Khazeev, S. (2019). Flight Control and Navigation System for the UAV Orlan-10. 2019 International Multi-Conference on Industrial Engineering and Modern Technologies (FarEastCon), 1-5.
34- Osborn, K. (2018). How Russia is using drones in Syria and Ukraine. Defense One. Retrieved from https://www.defenseone.com/technology/2018/07/how-russia-using-drones-syria-and-ukraine/149510/
35- Porter, T. (2015). Russian drones in Ukraine. Current History, 114(770), 281-286.
36- The Jamestown Foundation. (2019). Russia’s drones in Ukraine. Eurasia Daily Monitor, 16(74).
37- UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs. (2020). OCHA Flash Update: Nagorno-Karabakh (3 December 2020).
38- Jane’s Defence Weekly. (2020). Azerbaijan acquires Turkish armed drones. Jane’s Defence Weekly, 57(11), 18.
39- Baykar Defense. (2020). Bayraktar TB2 Tactical UAV. https://www.baykardefence.com/products/bayraktar-tb2-tactical-uav
40- SIPRI. (2020). Drones in the Armenia-Azerbaijan conflict. Stockholm International Peace Research Institute. https://www.sipri.org/commentary/topical-backgrounder/2020/drones-armenia-azerbaijan-conflict
41- Tariverdi, Y. (2020). UAVs and Artillery Attacks by Azerbaijani Forces on Civilian Areas of Nagorno-Karabakh. https://stopcivilians.com/en/uavs-and-artillery-attacks-by-azerbaijani-forces-on-civilian-areas-of-nagorno-karabakh/
42- United Nations. (2020). UN High Commissioner for Human Rights Michelle Bachelet condemns attacks on civilians and civilian infrastructure in and around Nagorno-Karabakh. https://www.ohchr.org/EN/NewsEvents/Pages/DisplayNews.aspx?NewsID=26322&LangID=E
43- The Washington Post. (2020). Drones are reshaping the fight in Nagorno-Karabakh. https://www.washingtonpost.com/video/world/drones-are-reshaping-the-fight-in-nagorno-karabakh/2020/10/16/1ef54d73-5b8b-471b-8e8b-fb56c3ddfe7f_video.html
دور الطائرات من دون طيار في الحروب الحديثة
النقيب موسيس ناشاليان
شهدت الحروب المعاصرة تحولًا جوهريًا بفضل تقنية الطائرات من دون طيار، أو ما يُعرف بالدرونز، إذ أصبحت هذه الوسيلة الفعالة جزءًا أساسيًا في ساحات المعركة.
تقدمت تقنيتها بشكلٍ سريع، وتطورت امكاناتها وفاعليتها، كما اصبحت أقل كلفة. للدرونز مزايا كثيرة في الحرب نظرًا لقدرتها على القيام بمهمات الاستطلاع الجوي والمراقبة وتعقّب الأهداف، بالإضافة إلى رسم الخرائط الجغرافية بدقةٍ عالية.
برز تأثيرها بشكل ملحوظ في الحروب المعاصرة، وأظهرت تغييرات استراتيجية بارزة، مثل استخدامها في الحروب غير المتكافئة، إذ تعمل هذه التكنولوجيا على تنفيذ ضربات دقيقة بأمانٍ أكبر، وتقلّل من الأضرار الجانبية، وتعزّز المرونة والكفاءة العملياتية، ما يقلل من المخاطر التي تهدّد سلامة القوى العسكرية.
عملت الولايات المتحدة وروسيا على تبيان فعاليتها في مكافحة الإرهاب، وكذلك في جمع المعلومات والاستهداف بدقةٍ. أما في حرب ناغورنو كاراباغ، فقد أبرز استخدام الدرونز بشكلٍ خاص أهميتها كعنصرٍ رئيس في منح أذربيجان التفوق العسكري في هذه الحرب.
في المقابل، تثير تقنية الدرونز مخاوف أخلاقية وقانونية كبيرة، بما في ذلك مخاطر إمكانية التأثير في المدنيين وانتهاك السيادة الوطنية والخصوصية. ومع استمرار تطور تقنيتها، يتعين على صانعي القرار وقادة الجيوش التصدي لهذه المخاوف لضمان انسجام استخدامها مع القوانين الدولية والمبادئ الأخلاقية.
لا شك في أهمية الدور الحيوي للدرونز في الحروب المعاصرة، ولكن يجب تحقيق توازن بين استخدامها الفعّال والنظر في اعتبارات المسؤولية القانونية والأخلاقية.