Challenges to national defence in contemporary geopolitical situation

Handheld optoelectronic devices are a key element in target acquisition in current military operations, especially for artillery reconnaissance and infantry reconnaissance units. This article focuses on a comparative evaluation of two optoelectronic devices of different performance classes, MOSKITO TI+ and JIM COMPACT, both manufactured by Safran Vectronix. The aim of the study is to assess whether the higher technical level of JIM COMPACT leads to a measurable improvement in target location accuracy under various field conditions. Measurements were performed under both ideal and deteriorated conditions (reduced visibility, adverse atmospheric effects) using standardized methodology with reference coordinates determined by geodetic methods. Preliminary results confirm a consistent difference in target localization accuracy between the two devices, with JIM COMPACT demonstrating lower dispersion and higher angular measurement stability, particularly at longer distances and in conditions where orientation accuracy becomes operationally critical.

Airfield infrastructure represents a critical element of national defence and a key enabler of NATO Host Nation Support (HNS). Modern conflicts demonstrate that airfields are priority targets, and even limited damage to runways can significantly disrupt air operations. NATO standards, particularly STANAG 2929 and AATMP‑03, therefore define Airfield Damage Repair (ADR) as a mandatory capability enabling rapid restoration of airfield functionality. This paper analyses ADR as an essential component of HNS and assesses the current state of ADR capability in the Czech Republic. Based on NATO doctrinal requirements and national research outcomes, the study highlights existing capability gaps and outlines key measures necessary to ensure compliance with alliance obligations and to enhance national and collective resilience.

The present article examines the implementation of small unmanned aerial systems into tactical units of the Czech Armed Forces, with a focus on the systemic capabilities that such integration brings to the areas of doctrine, organization, training, equipment, leadership, personnel, facilities and infrastructure, and interoperability. Systematic reviews and structured qualitative coding are used to derive implementation measures, which are then validated by field and academic experts and prioritized. The findings indicate that priorities extend across all domains and must inform Czech Armed Forces processes and procedures.

This paper examines the compression of the artillery kill chain in a UAS-saturated battlefield, using the Nagorno-Karabakh conflict (2020) as an empirical case. Based on OSINT analysis, the kill chain is decomposed into measurable phases and their temporal intervals estimated. Results indicate a total duration of 60–120 seconds, making time a dominant tactical constraint. The findings highlight implications for artillery tactics, simulation models, and officer education within Joint Fire Support and Multi-Domain Operations. The study provides a transparent framework linking empirical observations with operational practice.

This pilot study evaluates projection-based and virtual reality visualization in flight simulation using objective performance metrics and NASA-TLX workload assessment. A within-subject design with eight pilot students was used to verify a segment-based evaluation framework. Results indicate that virtual reality supports more stable control with lower variability, while projection-based display enables higher accuracy relative to predefined targets. Workload remained low to moderate in both conditions. The findings suggest that visualization modality influences control strategy and support the suitability of the proposed methodology for further research and application in simulation-based pilot training.

This paper examines how large language models can be embedded in governable agentic workflows for defence decision support. It argues that reliability and accountability in such systems depend on workflow architecture, not only on model capability. Building on the author’s earlier I→E→R model, the paper proposes an audit-first governance framework with three layers: explicit task decomposition, evidence grounding with provenance, and bounded control with logging and authorization gates. The framework is specified through five inspectable roles, four design variables, and bounded autonomy as the guiding design principle. The contribution is conceptual: it defines conditions under which agentic analytical processes can remain transparent, traceable, reconstructable, and auditable, and prepares the framework for later case-study or proof-of-concept evaluation.

The study evaluates the effectiveness of water charges for engineer support and EOD operations. These charges combine a small explosive with water to achieve controlled disruption of objects while minimizing collateral damage. The experiments focused on opening wooden crates using detonating cord and 550 ml of water. At least three segments of NP V detonating cord were required to successfully release the closures. The method enables safe inspection of the contents without their complete destruction. Although the results are promising, the procedures are not yet incorporated into the regulations of the Czech Armed Forces and require further research on different configurations.

This work presents a detailed spectrophotometric analysis of tantalum pentoxide (Ta2O5) thin films deposited for use in military optical components, with measurements conducted in the visible spectral range of 400–800 nm. The primary objective is to evaluate how the thickness of thin films and its surface and interface boundary roughness influence the optical response, particularly reflectance characteristics, which are critical for applications such as anti-reflective coatings, optical filters, and stealth-related technologies for military use.

This paper evaluates the influence of extended stand-off distance on the performance of 3D-printed copper-filled shaped charge liners. The study follows a previous experiment in which complete perforation was achieved at stand-off distances of 0, 15, 30 and 60 mm. Two additional distances, 100 and 150 mm, were tested using the same charge configuration. The results were assessed qualitatively based on penetration morphology. Complete perforation was achieved in all cases, but the 150 mm configuration showed reduced channel regularity and probable loss of jet coherence. The most favorable morphology was observed at 60 mm.

This paper addresses the problem of experimental reproducibility in the study of blast effects during explosive tactical breaching. In real conditions, breaching charges exhibit significant variability, which complicates the comparison of measured pressure responses and limits systematic research. The study investigates whether real breaching charges can be replaced by standardized spherical charges with an equivalent TNT effect. Experimental measurements were carried out in a training facility using pressure sensors, and the results were evaluated in terms of peak overpressure, impulse, and pressure-time history. The findings indicate that standardized charges provide comparable blast characteristics, with differences within acceptable limits. The proposed approach enables more reproducible experiments and creates a basis for further research on structural resilience and human exposure to repeated blast loading.