ENVIRONMENTALLY-ORIENTED APPROACH INTEGRATION INTO UNMANNED MARINE VEHICLES LIFE CYCLE Theoretical principles for developing and operating weapon systems

Dr. Dmytro Plynokos · National University of Civil Defence of Ukraine

Abstract

Abstract
The paper examines the life cycle structure of marine unmanned vehicles (systems and complexes), as a type of military equipment, considering the life cycle requirements management system for armament and military equipment in accordance with DSTU V 15.004:2022. Given the use specifics of unmanned vehicles in combat and special maritime operations, their life cycle covers a full range of stages – from conception, development and production to operation, support and decommissioning.

The current state of the Ukrainian defense sector demonstrates the active implementation of high-tech solutions, in particular, the development of the Mosquito Fleet concept, which also includes naval unmanned aerial vehicles (systems and complexes). The growing role of these systems in military operations requires a rethinking of approaches to managing their life cycle not only from a functional but from an environmental point of view as well.

The environmental component study at all life cycle stages assessment was conducted in accordance with the DSTU ISO 14040:2013 standard, which makes it possible to systematically assess the environmental consequences of materials, energy consumption and emissions at each stage.

Two approaches from different standards to life cycle management were analyzed. At first was analyzed a functionally- oriented approach according to DSTU V 15.004:2022, which regulates the development stages and weapons operation and military equipment. Then an environmentally-oriented approach was analyzed according to DSTU ISO 14040:2013, which involves assessing the products impact on the environment throughout their entire existence. Such a comparative analysis allows us to substantiate the integrating possibility an environmental approach into the existing military regulatory system.

The scientific analysis allowed to formulate practical recommendations regarding approaches to environmental safety and compliance with environmental standards at all armament and military equipment life cycles stages.

An environmental approach implementation to the marine unmanned vehicles life cycles is an important transformation component of the Armed Forces of Ukraine and the defense-industrial complex towards sustainable development and compliance with modern international standards.