Applicability of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles in Logistic Reconnaissance of Road and Railway Networks – Part 1

Abstract

Information that derives from theatre reconnaissance plays an important role in planning and organising the process of logistic support of peace support operations. Logistic reconnaissance may contain information about areas, infrastructures, transportation networks and systematisation of these data which is very important for (the) logistic support. Data from the evaluation of transportation networks, which have crucial importance when movement and deployment tasks of forces are planned and conducted, can be highlighted. Considering transportation networks, road and railway infrastructure
elements become important factors during land movement of forces when a significant amount of personnel and equipment are to be moved. There are different methods of gaining such information. The application of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles is one of the possible solutions, however, it can be important for personnel carrying out reconnaissance, because with the help of it inspection of road and railway networks can become quicker and more accurate. Nowadays, there are a wide range of types
and applications of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles. It should be analysed which of them are (the most) suitable for conducting logistic reconnaissance. Without attempting to be comprehensive, the objectives of the authors of this article are to present the different types of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles and analyse their applicability for logistic reconnaissance based on practical experience.