Guerra dei droni: l'evoluzione e l'impatto dei sistemi aerei senza pilota nella guerra contemporanea

The landscape of contemporary warfare has significantly transformed due to technological advancements, notably the integration of unmanned aerial systems (UAS), commonly known as drones. These advanced technologies have revolutionized military operations, offering new opportunities and challenges. The evolution of drones from simple devices to complex systems capable of a wide range of functions marks a crucial milestone in military history. This thesis explores the evolution, technological advancements, and implications of drones in modern military strategies. By examining the historical development and deployment of UAS, it highlights the transformation of drones from rudimentary, remotely controlled devices into sophisticated, autonomous weapons and surveillance systems. The study underscores drones' dual nature as powerful tools for precision warfare and controversial agents of change in military strategy. Drones are categorized into three main types: ground drones, underwater drones, and aerial drones. Ground drones, or Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs), are primarily used for reconnaissance, surveillance, and bomb disposal. Underwater drones, or Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs), perform tasks like underwater exploration and anti-submarine warfare. Aerial drones, or Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), are the most versatile, used extensively for surveillance, reconnaissance, targeted strikes, and delivery services. The historical development of drones reveals their evolution from early reconnaissance tools during the World Wars to their current roles in modern conflicts. Initially developed for reconnaissance, drones have advanced significantly, especially during the Cold War and subsequent conflicts like the Vietnam War. The Cold War era marked significant advancements in drone technology, driven by the need for strategic reconnaissance. Drones like the Ryan 147A Fire Fly and the Lockheed D-21B demonstrated the potential of UAVs for high-speed, high-altitude reconnaissance missions. In recent decades, drones have become integral to modern military operations, expanding beyond reconnaissance to include direct combat support and offensive missions. Operations like Desert Storm and the Global War on Terrorism have showcased the effectiveness of UAVs. The ability to provide real-time Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) has made drones essential in modern military strategy. Globally, several countries have emerged as leaders in drone production and deployment. China, the United States, Israel, Türkiye, Iran, Russia, and Ukraine have developed unique UAV systems tailored to their military needs and strategic objectives. The use of drones in the Ukrainian conflict, particularly Russia's drone strategy, provides a compelling case study of modern drone warfare. The evolution and impact of unmanned aerial systems in contemporary warfare underscore the transformative potential of drone technology. Drones have reshaped military strategy and operations from their early development to their current roles. As technological advancements continue, drones are poised to play an increasingly central role in shaping the future of warfare.