Challenges to national defence in contemporary geopolitical situation

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 paper analyzes one-way attack UAV saturation and air defense adaptation using open-source attack data recorded by Shahed-136/131 UAVs in Ukraine. Descriptive statistics, correlation, regression, and non-parametric tests indicate rapid growth in UAV volume, partial saturation effects, and a clear distinction between kinetic destruction and broader neutralization. The study contributes a measurable counter-UAS assessment model that links attack volume, defensive performance, and small-state air defense planning.