Unmanned Aerial Systems as a Catalyst for Artillery Kill Chain Compression: Lessons from the Nagorno-Karabakh Conflict
Volume 2026, Issue 1 (2026), pp. 121–129
Pub. online: 30 June 2026
Type: Article
Open Access
Published
30 June 2026
30 June 2026
Abstract
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.