RELATIONAL APPROACHES TO DESIGNING THE USE OF GROUND LOGISTICS TRANSPORT DRONES IN HIGHLY CONTESTED TACTICAL OPERATIONAL ENVIRONMENTS

Gheorghe MINCULETE

Abstract


The conflict in Ukraine has highlighted hybrid combat environments, with continuous attacks using drones, drone swarms, artillery, rockets, and electromagnetic jamming, putting pressure on sustaining tactical unit operations. To support combat structures, Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) are increasingly analyzed and employed to transport ammunition, light equipment, and supplies into heavily contested areas. In this article, we do not aim at technological development of drones but rather to examine their efficient use for prompt on-demand resupply, focusing on quantitative and deterministic projections under the mentioned tactical conditions for 120 mm ammunition. Using a methodological model based on hypothetical data, we determined optimal transport per delivery run, the duration of each, and the overall mission, considering potential losses and protective measures, thereby increasing logistical resilience and reducing personnel exposure.

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