Vascular injuries in modern warfare are frequently complex and contaminated and are associated with a high risk of secondary complications. Erosive bleeding after vascular reconstruction represents a limb- and life-threatening condition. We report a case of combined gunshot and shrapnel injury to both upper extremities in a soldier, initially treated with temporary vascular shunting and subsequent autovenous reconstruction. The postoperative course was complicated by erosive bleeding at the graft site, requiring urgent reoperation and staged wound management. Limb perfusion was successfully preserved. This case illustrates the importance of shunting, repeated surgical assessment, aggressive infection control and staged reconstruction strategies in contaminated combat-related vascular injuries.

ABSTRACT This article analyses the impact of data-linked kill chains and advanced algorithmic warfare on combined arms warfare (CAW), drawing empirical evidence from the Russo – Ukrainian war and engaging Stephen Biddle’s Modern System theory. It asks whether these technologies merely amplify established doctrinal practices or introduce conditions under which the logic of modern warfare may evolve. The analysis spans three levels. At the technical level, data-linked kill chains enhance transparency by compressing sensor-to-shooter cycles and enabling near-real-time coordination. At the tactical level, algorithmic systems – including drone swarms and cross-domain synchronization – create new forms of adaptive coordination, while remaining exposed to electronic warfare and deception. At the strategic level, operational success increasingly depends on informational and algorithmic dominance rather than force concentration alone. The Ukrainian case demonstrates that kill chains provide a necessary but insufficient platform for battlefield advantage; adversary adaptation rapidly erodes algorithmic superiority; and doctrinal integration remains decisive. The article concludes that while Biddle’s Modern System continues to explain most battlefield outcomes, algorithmic systems introduce a conditional pathway toward transformation in CAW.

The contemporary battlefield-defined by the mass employment of first-person view drones, multispectral sensor suites, integrated Intelligence, Surveillance and Reconnaissance systems, and precision-guided munitions-has produced an unprecedented level of informational transparency in which tactical medical evacuation no longer conforms to classical doctrinal assumptions. Drawing on field observations from Ukrainian units (2022-2025) and analytical modelling conducted in MATLAB, this study introduces a new conceptual framework that treats battlefield transparency as a probabilistic process dynamically updated through a Bayesian mechanism. A connectivity parameter (C) is proposed to quantify the degree of coordination among friendly measures aimed at reducing sensor exposure (electronic warfare, smoke and thermal screens, maneuver, deception), thereby determining a unit's ability to generate short-lived "windows of reduced transparency." Modelling demonstrated that under conditions of persistent aerial surveillance and dense sensor saturation, evacuation risk becomes sharply nonlinear, although Bayesian updates consistently shift the expected transparency toward higher values, rendering most traditional evacuation scenarios operationally infeasible. Only at sufficiently high levels of connectivity (C ≥ 0.6-0.7) do tactical conditions emerge that are compatible with relatively safe evacuation. Based on this framework, FIRE-FORM v1.0 is introduced as a universal field tool for rapid "evacuate/do not evacuate" decision-making, integrating transparency, connectivity, and Bayesian likelihood into a single composite risk index. This approach establishes a new analytical paradigm for medical support in hyper-transparent battlespaces and offers a foundation for the development of adaptive doctrines and decision-making algorithms suited to technologically advanced modern warfare.

To analyze the incidence, mechanisms, anatomical distribution, and clinical outcomes of combat-related spinal injuries during high-intensity modern warfare ("Swords of Iron War"). Combat-related spinal trauma has seen a rising incidence in recent conflicts, primarily driven by high-energy mechanisms such as explosive devices. These injuries often result in severe neurological deficits and present as part of complex polytrauma, yet data regarding the specific trends in recent urban warfare remain limited. A retrospective observational study was conducted in two stages using the Israel Defense Force (IDF) Trauma Registry and Electronic Medical Records between October 2023 and June 2025. Stage 1 analyzed 3,972 urgent pre-hospital casualties to determine incidence and systemic severity of spinal injuries. Stage 2 focused on 105 hospital-confirmed spinal injury cases to delineate specific anatomical patterns, injury mechanisms, and surgical management. The incidence of spinal injury was 2.2% among urgent casualties. Spinal trauma served as a significant marker for injury severity, with 45.0% of patients exhibiting an Injury Severity Score (ISS) ≥25, compared to 12.0% in the non-spinal group (P<0.001). Explosive mechanisms (including combined explosion and ballistic trauma) predominated, accounting for 47.6% of cases. While total injuries were relatively balanced across spinal regions, major fractures were disproportionately concentrated in the lower segments, with the lumbar and sacral regions accounting for 35% and 26% of all major fractures, respectively. Neurological deficits were present in 42.9% of the cohort. Spinal fixation was the most frequent surgical intervention, primarily in the lumbar region, and 66.7% of all cases were managed non-operatively. Combat-related spinal injuries are uncommon but serve as a critical indicator of high-energy multisystem polytrauma. The distinct pattern of major fractures favoring the lower spinal segments, likely due to axial blast loading, necessitates specialized triage and care to optimize functional outcomes.

This study evaluates the evolution of surgical activities aboard a French aircraft carrier over the past decade. Historically focused on routine surgical care, the carrier has recently upgraded its facilities to address emerging challenges posed by high-intensity conflicts. Data were collected from surgical reports between 2013 and 2023. Key advancements, including the implementation of a Navalized Antenna of Resuscitation and Emergency Surgery (ARCS), were analyzed. The study also reviews the carrier's enhanced capabilities in trauma and mass casualty management. From 2013 to 2023, 220 surgical procedures were performed, including 143 orthopedic (64%) and 80 visceral surgeries (36%). Local anesthesia was used in 44% of cases, regional anesthesia in 20%, general anesthesia with spontaneous ventilation in 27%, and general anesthesia with endotracheal intubation in 9%. The introduction of the ARCS system in 2024 significantly improved the carrier's ability to handle combat-related injuries, with new facilities enabling 2 simultaneous surgeries, enhanced imaging, and tele-assisted procedures. The French aircraft carrier's surgical capabilities have evolved from routine care to readiness for high-intensity conflicts and mass casualty events. These advancements ensure hospital-standard care onboard and position the carrier to meet the demands of modern warfare.

Resuscitative thoracotomy (RT) is a last-resort intervention for traumatic cardiac arrest or impending cardiovascular collapse. Although outcomes after RT are well described in civilian trauma, data from modern warfare-characterized by high-energy penetrating mechanisms, advanced prehospital care, and rapid evacuation-remain limited. This study evaluated the characteristics and outcomes of RT performed during recent combat operations within a combined military-civilian trauma system. We conducted a retrospective cohort study of all combat casualties who underwent emergency department (ED) RT during the Israel-Hamas conflict (October 27, 2023, to October 27, 2025). Data were extracted from prehospital and ED medical records and postmortem computed tomography reports. RT was defined as a thoracotomy performed in the ED in a pulseless patient with the intent to restore spontaneous circulation. The primary outcome was 30-day survival. Secondary outcomes included return of spontaneous circulation (ROSC) and 24-hour survival. Among 2,335 combat trauma admissions, 27 patients (1.2%) underwent RT. All were young male casualties with penetrating injuries, predominantly from explosive mechanisms (74.1%). Severe trauma was common (ISS ≥25 in 92.6%). Prehospital blood products were administered in 77.8% of patients, and 66.7% arrived at the ED within 60 minutes of injury. ROSC was achieved in 40.7%, of whom 90.9% were transferred to the operating room. Two patients (7.4%) survived to 24 hours and 30 days, both with good neurologic outcomes. No patient who lost pulse before hospital arrival survived. Among modern warfare casualties treated at civilian trauma centers, survival after RT is comparable to that reported in civilian series, despite severe and complex injury patterns. RT should not be considered futile for penetrating abdominal, pelvic, or extremity hemorrhage, even in the presence of associated head injury. In contrast, prehospital circulatory arrest is associated with an extremely poor prognosis.(J Trauma Acute Care Surg. 2026;000:000-000. Copyright © 2026 Wolters Kluwer Health, Inc. All rights reserved.).

Fallujah, by Jonathan Holmes (2007), is one of the archetypal examples of verbatim theatre, which addresses the truths of the Iraq War through dramatised eyewitness accounts and documentation reconstructions. Sketched in the Second Battle of Fallujah, the play reveals moral, political, and epistemological aspects of how modern warfare is presented. This article hinges on the postmodern theory of Jean-François Lyotard—especially the concepts of language games, paralogy, and the differend—to discuss the play Fallujah as a subversion of official grand narratives of the Iraq War. Through the use of testimonial intertextuality, irony and fragmentation, Holmes builds a multidimensional tableau of discourse contradictions in which truth is relative, and legitimacy is constantly deferred. The play turns into a meta-discursive critique of Western power dynamics, challenging the manner in which the knowledge is created, distributed, and twisted in the name of liberation and humanitarianism. Further, the article examines both dramaturgical and aesthetic techniques that lend truthfulness to Holmes’ concept of the verbatim approach as it dislocates the truth in relation to war and victimhood. The results help us comprehend the role of modern theatre in the reconstruction of the cultural memory and morality in the post-war era. The article concludes that Fallujah is a vivid example of postmodern theatrical resistance, an ethical and artistic response to commodity violence and the obliteration of lived suffering.

Introduction: This study evaluates military medicine education at the Defence Services Medical Academy (DSMA) in Myanmar, focusing on curriculum structure, practical training quality, and alignment with evolving military and civilian healthcare needs. Despite a comprehensive approach, identified gaps in practical training (e.g., trauma care, CBRN management) and curriculum continuity hinder student preparedness for modern military medicine. Methods: This qualitative study used Focused Group Discussions (FGDs) with 24 participants (12 students, 12 faculty) to explore themes like time constraints, practical training, curriculum integration, and modern technology integration. Data were analysed using MAXQDA 24 to identify key themes related to the curriculum’s content and effectiveness. Results: Findings indicate that while the military medicine module of DSMA covers a broad range of topics, practical training remains inadequate, especially in critical areas such as trauma care, CBRN management, and digital health technologies. Furthermore, curriculum continuity issues, marked by disconnected annual topics, impede clear progression. The study recommends revising the module to include modern warfare medicine, expanding hands-on training, and incorporating mobile learning platforms. It also suggests increasing simulation-based training, restructuring the module to enhance its practical application, and establishing a dedicated military medicine department. Conclusion: The study identifies critical gaps in DSMA’s curriculum, particularly in practical training (e.g., trauma, CBRN) and coherence. These must be addressed to better prepare students for the challenges of modern military and civilian healthcare. Proposed improvements will ensure DSMA graduates are equipped to handle contemporary healthcare demands, reinforcing the academy’s role as a leader in military medical education.

This study analyzes 308 news articles published by 19 newspapers across 19 countries to examine the actors behind deepfakes, the associated threats, and the proposed solutions. Using the Russia–Ukraine war as a case study, the authors examined how newspapers frame deepfake-related actors, threats, and solutions during the conflict. Qualitative thematic analysis was used to analyze the data, and framing theory to interpret the findings. Findings reveal that the actors responsible for creating, distributing, and supporting deepfakes include state and political entities, technology companies and developers, criminal networks, covert channels, and propaganda agents. The threats posed by deepfakes span political, ethical, legal, social, security, and economic domains. Proposed solutions to counter deepfakes fall into several categories: technical, policy-based, regulatory, institutional, and educational. This research contributes to the growing body of literature on modern warfare, AI-generated disinformation, deepfakes, and the rapidly changing digital information ecosystem in the post-truth era.

Abstract Combat effectiveness in modern warfare is defined by achieving and maintaining information superiority. This capability relies on sensors and telecommunications network complexes, which jointly acquire, process and deliver battlefield synthesis information to the tactical and operational commanders. This paper will explain the operational advantages in electronic services provided by HAPS. The discriminative capability of different mounted sensors and the telecommunications links efficiency will be examined, when the HAPS is acting as a repeater or a cellular base station in the sky. A comparison with LEO and GEO satellites will also be made, investigating the advantages and drawbacks of each vehicle in telecommunications and surveillance missions. Finally, a HAPS configuration and architecture will be proposed, suitable for both telecommunications and surveillance military missions.

The article provides a comprehensive analysis of the development and practical application of ground robotic complexes in modern warfare, based on Ukraine’s combat experience during 2022–2025. The purpose of the article is to study current trends in the development of ground robotic complexes in the context of their application in modern military conflicts, with a focus on expanding their engineering capabilities, as well as determining the prospects for creating unified multifunctional platforms in Ukraine, on the basis of which various types of ground robotic complexes can be developed for use by troops (forces). The methodological framework of the study combines a systems-structural approach, comparative analysis of the tactical and technical characteristics of domestic and foreign ground robotic complexes, content analysis of open technical descriptions from manufacturers, analytical reports, scientific publications, and materials from the Brave1 Market platform. As a result of the study, it was established that ground robotic complexes have undergone a phased transformation from auxiliary technical means into independent and functionally significant elements of combat systems, capable of performing logistics, engineering, and combat tasks. The main global trends in the development of ground robotic complexes were identified, including the predominance of platform modularity, an increasing level of autonomy, integration into digital command and control networks, enhanced resilience to electronic warfare means, and a focus on minimizing human involvement in combat zones. The structure and classification of Ukrainian ground robotic complexes according to functional and tactical purposes were generalized, and the experience of the mass use of engineering ground robotic complexes for remote mining, demining, logistical support, and evacuation was analyzed. It is substantiated that the widespread implementation of engineering ground robotic complexes contributes to reducing personnel losses, increasing the efficiency and safety of engineering operations, and creating prerequisites for a transition to a new paradigm of warfare based on the principles of contactless engagement and technological autonomy. Further development in this area should rely on the standardization of modular platforms, the integration of artificial intelligence, the improvement of communication systems, and the formation of a regulatory and legal framework for the use of combat modifications of ground robotic complexes. The results of the study may be applied in the activities of engineering and combat units of the Armed Forces of Ukraine, in the development of state programs for military robotics development, as well as in scientific research and educational activities in the field of military sciences.

This article presents a comprehensive SWOT analysis of the main types of air operations defined by the Allied Joint Doctrine for Air and Space Operations (AJP-3.3), with the aim of assessing the capabilities of the air component in contemporary and projected operational environments. The subject of the study is the system of air operations within joint operations, while the focus is placed on their effectiveness under conditions of a dynamic, multi-domain battlespace. The relevance of the research is обусловлена rapid technological evolution, including the proliferation of unmanned aerial systems, precision-guided munitions, advanced air defense systems, and electronic warfare capabilities, which significantly transform the nature and conduct of air operations. The methodological framework of the study is based on the application of SWOT analysis as an integrated analytical tool adapted to the operational level of military planning. In addition, elements of systems analysis, comparative analysis, and scenario-based assessment are employed to ensure a comprehensive evaluation of both internal capabilities and external influencing factors. The analysis incorporates lessons learned from aviation employment in armed conflicts of the late 20th and early 21st centuries, as well as a retrospective assessment of the War of Independence of Ukraine. The results of the study identify key strengths and weaknesses of different types of air operations, as well as opportunities for their further development and threats that affect the effectiveness of airpower employment within Joint Forces. It is established that the decisive factors influencing the success of air operations include the level of integration between intelligence, command and control, strike capabilities, and support systems, as well as the ability to process information rapidly and make timely decisions. The findings demonstrate that the traditional platform-centric approach is becoming increasingly insufficient in modern warfare conditions. The study substantiates a transition toward an effects-based approach to airpower assessment, where the primary emphasis is placed on achieving desired operational effects rather than on the quantitative or qualitative characteristics of individual platforms. This approach expands the provisions of existing doctrinal documents and aligns with the concept of multi-domain operations, where air power functions as an integral element of a unified operational system. In conclusion, the research confirms that the effectiveness of air operations depends not on the number of platforms, but on the degree of their integration within a unified operational cycle. The practical significance of the results obtained lies in their applicability to the planning and execution of joint operations, the development of Air Force capabilities, and the improvement of doctrinal and command-and-control systems. The proposed approach may also serve as a methodological basis for further research in the field of airpower theory and multi-domain operations.

The rapid development of unmanned systems has significantly transformed modern warfare. Unmanned aerial vehicles, ground robotic systems, and maritime unmanned platforms have expanded the capabilities of military operations. However, future trends indicate that alongside the development of artificial intelligence, an important direction in robotics is the creation of polymorphic systems capable of operating effectively in different physical environments. One of the promising areas in this field is the development of air–sea robotic platforms that can perform missions both in the aerial and underwater domains. The article presents an improved method for designing a polymorphic air–sea robotic vehicle based on the application of fuzzy set theory and fuzzy logical inference. The proposed approach addresses the complexity of designing systems that must operate efficiently in mutually contradictory environments, such as air and water. The method allows designers to reconcile conflicting requirements for mobility, payload capacity, operational duration, cost, and reliability. The proposed design methodology consists of several interconnected stages. The first stage includes the formation of operational goals, analysis of the external environment, and identification of potential operational scenarios. These scenarios involve covert movement in one environment with primary operational activity in another. At the second stage, an idealized description of the prospective system is created using linguistic variables and fuzzy sets. This approach allows the formalization of expert knowledge and approximate descriptions of system characteristics, including flight speed, underwater velocity, endurance, payload, entry parameters into water, and system cost. Membership functions are constructed for each parameter in order to represent the desired characteristics of the system in fuzzy form. The defuzzification process is carried out using the maximin criterion, allowing the identification of alternatives that most closely correspond to the idealized system description. The next stage involves the structural decomposition of the robotic platform and the formation of alternative design solutions. Evaluation of these alternatives is performed using the fuzzy analytic hierarchy process combined with the Bellman–Zadeh decision-making principle. This approach enables the aggregation of expert assessments and the ranking of design alternatives under conditions of uncertainty. The final stage involves structural and parametric synthesis of the air–sea robotic platform. The results of the study demonstrate that the application of fuzzy decision-making methods makes it possible to design a polymorphic robotic system whose characteristics are close to the desired operational parameters. The study also shows that the use of a variable-geometry wing is a key design solution that improves water entry and exit performance while maintaining high aerodynamic and hydrodynamic efficiency. The proposed method can be used as a scientific and methodological basis for the development of advanced polymorphic robotic systems capable of performing reconnaissance, strike, and surveillance missions in complex multi-domain environments.

Future large-scale and peer conflicts will occur across contested and dispersed environments where air evacuation is uncertain and medical units may operate in isolation for prolonged periods. In these conditions, uncontrolled hemorrhage will remain the leading cause of preventable death. Civilian trauma systems have demonstrated that endovascular and interventional radiology techniques achieve rapid hemorrhage control and organ preservation, yet forward military facilities often lack these capabilities. This review examines how embedding interventional radiologists within forward surgical teams can enhance combat casualty survival and medical resilience in the next war. A narrative review of historical military experience, civilian trauma literature, and Department of War modernization efforts was conducted. Evidence was organized into five domains: historical evolution of imaging and intervention, civilian endovascular trauma outcomes, organ-specific endovascular repair, expeditionary integration models, and doctrinal requirements for future conflicts. Deployed experience in Iraq and Afghanistan proved that catheter-based hemorrhage control and endograft repair are feasible and lifesaving when imaging and expertise are co-located. Civilian data shows that early embolization achieves highly effective hemostasis in solid-organ and pelvic injuries while reducing transfusions and operative mortality. Modern portable fluoroscopy and handheld ultrasound systems now make these capabilities logistically achievable in Role 2 and Role 3 environments. The most significant barriers are doctrinal and personnel-related rather than technological. Integrating trained interventional radiologists into forward surgical elements ensures immediate vascular control, decompression, and image-guided repair at the point of injury. The next conflict will demand self-sufficient medical teams capable of definitive intervention without guaranteed evacuation. Deploying interventional radiologists with forward surgical teams transforms hemorrhage control from a delayed capability to an immediate, on-site function. These specialists bring procedural precision, imaging expertise, and team leadership that extend the reach of surgical and critical care capabilities. Formal doctrinal inclusion of interventional radiologists as part of expeditionary surgical elements is essential to reduce preventable deaths, preserve fighting strength, and ensure survival in modern warfare.

Objective: To develop a conceptual model of the Digital Transformation Management Sys-tem (DTMS) integrating digitization processes with capability-based defense planning. The study analyzes Ukraine's defense digital transformation (2014–2025), documenting achievements and proposing requirements for a future integrated management system. The research addresses the problem of ‘patchwork automation’ that arises from bottom-up vol-unteer initiatives and analyzes the shift of modern conflict toward cognitive warfare, where strategic goals include establishing situational awareness and manipulating adversary deci-sion-making. Hypothesis: Effective defense digital transformation requires systematic inte-gration of management with the Joint Capabilities Integration and Development System (JCIDS). This integration, supported by enterprise architecture, creates an asymmetric ad-vantage through shortened decision cycles and data fusion for cognitive advantage. Meth-ods: A systems approach was applied to analyze the digital ecosystems deployed during the Russo-Ukrainian war, including DELTA, Kropyva platforms, and the ‘Army of Drones’ ini-tiative, assessed against NATO (NAF) and DoDAF standards. The DOTMLPFI-P model was used to identify functional gaps. Results: The DTMS architecture based on three pillars (People, Technology, Processes) and five functional blocks was substantiated. A federated governance model with an architectural repository was proposed. Conclusions: Success in modern multi-domain warfare depends on strategic alignment of digital innovations with operational needs. DTMS facilitates the transition to flexible network-centric architectures that support operational advantage in cognitive warfare.

Blast-induced traumatic brain injury (bTBI), frequently observed in modern warfare, often presents without overt clinical symptoms initially, yet can involve visual impairment. However, the underlying mechanisms and long-term outcomes of visual dysfunction following blast exposure (BE) remain poorly understood. This study aimed to investigate the potential delayed effects of BE on visual function. A bTBI mouse model was established using a biological shock tube. Neurological deficits were assessed via the modified neurological severity score, while visual function was evaluated at multiple time points using flash visual evoked potentials (F-VEP) and a light-dark shuttle box. Ultrastructural evidence of damage was obtained through transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Inflammatory and pyroptosis markers were localized and quantified via immunofluorescence staining and Western blotting. Neuronal damage was detected by the terminal deoxynucleotidyl transferase-mediated dUTP nick end labeling (TUNEL) staining combined with neuron-specific nuclear protein (NeuN) immunofluorescence labeling. To assess therapeutic potential, MCC950 was administered to bTBI mice, and visual function was re-evaluated. The results demonstrated that visual dysfunction emerged at 24 hours post BE, followed by a transient recovery, and reappeared at 28 days post BE. Early demyelination of the optic nerve and later pyroptosis of neurons in the visual cortex were identified as key pathological features. MCC950 treatment effectively mitigated neuroinflammation and neuronal pyroptosis, thereby ameliorating late-phase visual dysfunction. These findings collectively suggest that BE leads to biphasic visual dysfunction, driven by distinct mechanisms at different stages. Early intervention targeting nucleotide-binding oligomerization domain-like receptor family pyrin domain-containing 3 (NLRP3) inflammasome activation may represent a promising therapeutic strategy to prevent late-phase visual impairment. Moreover, non-invasive F-VEP provides a sensitive and practical approach for assessing visual injury in bTBI.

The application of a new generation of artificial intelligence technology is driving the evolution of modern warfare toward intellectualization, unmanned operation and systematization, promoting the continuous innovation of operational concepts, and putting forward new capability requirements for modern military talents. The traditional talent training model of military academies, which is characterized by knowledge indoctrination and weak practical training in actual combat, can hardly meet the urgent demand for new-type talents in modern intelligent warfare. Based on the background of the transformation of operational modes, this paper analyzes the new-quality capability requirements of military academy students for intelligent warfare, such as human-machine collaborative thinking, complex system control and unconventional operational method innovation, expounds the era value of AI empowerment, and explores the implementation paths of AI empowering the cultivation of students' new-quality capabilities from three dimensions: curriculum system reconstruction, teaching model transformation and practical path optimization. It aims to provide theoretical reference and practical reference for military academies to deepen the reform of education and teaching and cultivate high-quality new-type military talents needed for strengthening the military.

The evolution of warfare as seen in Ukraine has transformed frontline combat casualty care, forcing medical teams to operate under persistent threat up to 50 km from the line of contact. NATO medical planning doctrine currently lacks granularity for small-unit operations at the "tactical" level (company level and below). The authors previously developed the Medical Planning Process (MPP), mirroring the Troop Leading Procedures (TLP), to address this doctrinal gap. Embedded in the MPP is the CMPEC3 mission analysis framework (Casualty Estimation, Materiel, Personnel, Environment, Command, Control & Communications), which allows for comprehensive analysis of medical and tactical mission factors. The current paper reports on development and deployment of the Medical Planning Course (MPC) in Ukraine to teach the MPP to Ukrainian military medical personnel. The MPC was developed jointly with Ukrainian partners and was part of a pilot quality improvement project initiated by request of Ukrainian military leadership. The main goal of the course was to provide small-unit medical leaders with actionable tools to begin medical mission planning and to develop a basic but complete medical plan within an acceptable timeframe. Secondary goals included increased familiarity with U.S. and NATO planning doctrine, fostering a culture of analytical and creative thinking, and empowering medical personnel to become more proactive leaders. Feedback was gathered through anonymous surveys, classroom observations, and expert consultations. The content of the course was adapted to local demands and constraints. The course reinforced basic knowledge of military planning methodologies (Military Decision-Making Process and TLP) before detailing the structure of the MPP and the separate components of the CMPEC3 mission analysis framework. Theoretical discourse further included discussion of patient triage categories, assessment of limitations and constraints, and the formulation of contingency plans. These factors were then applied to fictional and real-life case scenarios to draft a medical evacuation scheme from point-of-injury to higher levels of care with discussion of outlined medical courses of action. The MPC was delivered to 66 participants, including recent combat medic graduates, senior enlisted personnel, and officers. Students unanimously recognized the benefits of structured planning for team effectiveness. The practical exercise of constructing evacuation schemes proved most valuable, with groups developing basic medical concepts of operations within one hour. A notable mindset shift occurred regarding planning feasibility. Challenges included limited time allotted by command and limited applicability of the NATO Roles of Care model. Experts emphasized the need for ongoing medical reconnaissance and integration with combat operations. The MPP and MPC were later included in the Ukrainian Combat Medic Military Occupational Specialty curriculum. The MPC introduced structured medical planning to Ukrainian small-unit leaders, demonstrating proof of concept. Key lessons include the ability to construct plans within short timeframes, the importance of medical reconnaissance, and patient-to treatment matching beyond the standard NATO roles. Integration of the MPP into NATO doctrine could help mitigate doctrinal gaps and enhance coalition interoperability for dispersed operations in modern warfare environments.

ABSTRACT With the increasing deployment of unmanned combat vehicles (UCVs) in modern warfare, it is noteworthy that these vehicles differ from manned vehicles in their susceptibility to damage from antipersonnel mines or antiarmor weapons. Such attacks can lead to the breakage of a single track, rendering on‐site repairs impractical. Consequently, unilateral track movement emerges as a critical strategy for UCVs to continue combat operations or retreat to maintenance facilities after sustaining such damage. To investigate the ultimate conditions and steering capabilities under unilateral track motion, we established and analyzed a dynamic model. The study provides methodologies for calculating maximum angular displacement during sudden acceleration or deceleration under various operational scenarios. Furthermore, based on parameters such as vehicle torque, optimal steering control strategies were derived. To validate the feasibility of unilateral track movement, dynamic simulations were conducted using ADAMS software, and experimental prototypes were fabricated for empirical testing. The results indicate that turning through sudden acceleration is significantly more efficient than turning via sudden deceleration. This finding corroborates the accuracy of the theoretical analysis and simulation outcomes, thereby offering valuable reference points for the future design and development of UCVs.

This article provides a strategic and analytical examination of the militarization of civilian satellite internet in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war, using the Starlink system as a case study. Against the backdrop of the vulnerability of traditional military communications systems to cyber and kinetic threats, the study explores the paradigm shift created by Low Earth Orbit (LEO)-based systems within the operational theatre. The methodological framework is grounded in the concepts of Network-Centric Warfare (NCW) and the OODA loop (Observe-Orient-Decide-Act). The analysis indicates that the adoption of Starlink strengthened the Ukrainian military’s Command and Control (C2) architecture, accelerated the “sensor-to-shooter” chain, and demonstrated high resilience against Electronic Warfare (EW) capabilities. At the same time, the article assesses the geopolitical risks arising from the military use of dual-use infrastructures, the influence of private actors on issues of sovereignty, and the “grey zone” challenges within international humanitarian law. Ultimately, it argues that civilian space infrastructure in modern warfare is not merely a technological resource but also a strategic power factor that changes operational tempo.