The Evolution of Air Threats in Future Conflicts

Abstract

Currently, there is an observable trend towards continuous and comprehensive development in both fixed-wing and rotary-wing aircraft design. Furthermore, a dynamic progression has been also witnessed in the evolution of unmanned aerial vehicles, loitering munitions, lethal autonomous weapons systems, ballistic missiles, cruise missiles, hypersonic cruise missiles, lighter-than-air sensor platforms, high altitude pseudo satellites and any others. The development of modern technologies and the acquisition of new materials create opportunities for the modernization of existing air threats as well as the development of novel types. Additionally, the potential of artificial intelligence in unmanned systems is a significant factor that should not be overlooked. The aforementioned circumstances have prompted the author of the article to conduct a thorough examination of contemporary military air threats and to make a forecast regarding the evolution of air threats in future conflicts.