9–28

War reindustrialization of Europe: defense industrial complexes as pillars of strategic autonomy

Slaven Knežević

The article explores the phenomenon of Europe's war reindustrialization after 2022 as a strategic response to altered security dynamics due to rising eastern threats. The aim is to provide empirical insight into this transformation and develop a conceptual framework for understanding its long-term implications. We analyze the military-industrial complex as a multidimensional security, economic, high-tech, and social phenomenon. We examine three hypotheses: (1) war reindustrialization is not merely a short-term reaction but a long-term strategic reorientation, (2) the process dynamics show significant variations conditioned by geographical position, historical experiences, and economic capacities, and (3) the revitalized military-industrial complex creates a new economic reality that alters power relations within the EU and NATO. Methodologically, we apply a mixed approach: quantitative analysis of military budgets, comparative analysis of strategies, and case studies. Results show a 32% increase in NATO members' military budgets (2021-2023), opening of 70+ new facilities, creation of 210,000 jobs, and high correlation (r=0.78) between geographical proximity to threats and intensity of reindustrialization. We conclude that war reindustrialization represents a fundamental paradigm shift that will shape the security architecture, economic structure, and geopolitical position of the continent in the coming decades.

DOI: 10.65932/military-studies-2025-2-1 preuzmi

29–41

Electromagnetic compatibility of communication systems in the vicinity of radar installations: implications for integrated combat management

Saeed Pezeshki

Electromagnetic compatibility (EMC) represents a fundamental challenge in modern military operations where communication systems and radar installations coexist in a dense electromagnetic environment. This paper investigates the complex interactions between radiofrequency (RF) systems in the context of integrated combat management (C4ISR), analyzing the mechanisms of electromagnetic interference (EMI) and strategies for their mitigation. The methodological approach combines a systematic literature review with analytical modeling of interference scenarios, including quantitative evaluation of coexistence performance between radar and communication systems in the S-band and millimeter-wave frequency range. Results demonstrate that dynamic spectrum allocation, cognitive radar techniques, and spatial separation can significantly reduce mutual interference, with advanced interference cancellation algorithms achieving signal-to-noise ratio improvements of 15-25 dB. The research also identifies critical electromagnetic separation thresholds and recommends an integrated spectrum management approach that balances the operational requirements of radar surveillance and tactical communications. Conclusions indicate the necessity of implementing adaptive EMC protocols in the integrated combat management architecture, particularly in the context of network-centric warfare where simultaneous operation of multiple RF platforms represents an operational necessity.

DOI: 10.65932/military-studies-2025-2-2 preuzmi

42–52

The influence of metal fatigue on the reliability of combat vehicle armor under conditions of extreme temperature oscillations

Diego Muzio

The reliability of armored systems in combat vehicles under operational conditions involving significant temperature variations represents a key aspect of military-technical science. This paper investigates the complex mechanisms by which thermal oscillations affect metal fatigue processes in high-hardness armor steels, with particular emphasis on welded joints that represent critical sites for crack initiation and propagation. The methodological approach encompassed a systematic analysis of published experimental data from relevant scientific literature, along with the application of fracture mechanics principles and thermomechanical fatigue theory. The results indicate significant temperature sensitivity of fatigue parameters in armor steels, whereby impact toughness at a temperature of -40°C decreases by approximately 47% compared to values at room temperature. The stress intensity factor threshold for the base metal of armor steel class 500 HB is ΔKth = 13.4 MPa·m^(1/2), while the heat-affected zone and weld metal exhibit lower threshold values of 12.6 MPa·m^(1/2) and 10.1 MPa·m^(1/2), respectively. Thermal cycling additionally contributes to damage accumulation through mechanisms that include thermal expansion incompatibility of different microstructural phases, development of residual stresses, and changes in plastic deformation mechanisms. It was concluded that extreme temperature oscillations significantly compromise the integrity of armored structures, and that the design of military vehicles must take into account the synergistic effect of mechanical loading and thermal cycles.

DOI: 10.65932/military-studies-2025-2-3 preuzmi

53–65

Application of boyd's ooda loop in the coordination of unmanned systems for reconnaissance in urban environments

Sungkuk Kim

The coordination of multiple unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in urban environments represents one of the most demanding challenges of modern military and civilian robotics. This paper explores the application of Boyd's OODA (Observe-Orient-Decide-Act) loop as a theoretical and practical framework for improving the coordination of unmanned systems during reconnaissance missions in complex urban environments. The methodological approach combines a systematic literature review with an analysis of existing OODA loop implementations in autonomous systems, with particular emphasis on identifying key parameters that affect the efficiency of real-time decision-making. Research results demonstrate that the integration of the OODA loop into the management architecture of multiple UAV systems significantly reduces decision-making time by an average of 34-47% in simulated urban scenarios, while simultaneously improving the quality of operator situational awareness by 28%. The analysis also identifies critical factors that limit the application of the OODA loop in decentralized UAV systems, including communication latencies, processing power limitations, and the complexity of urban terrain. In conclusion, the paper proposes a modified OODA framework called OODA-UAV that explicitly integrates sensor fusion, distributed decision-making, and adaptive trajectory planning as key components for the efficient coordination of unmanned systems in urban reconnaissance. The contribution of this paper lies in the theoretical elaboration and empirical validation of the application of a classical military decision-making concept in the context of contemporary autonomous systems.

DOI: 10.65932/military-studies-2025-2-4 preuzmi

66–76

Biomechanical analysis of spinal loading in infantry personnel during multi-day carriage of combat equipment exceeding 35 kg

Eka Bokuchava

Low back pain represents the leading musculoskeletal disorder among military personnel, with load carriage training considered a primary etiological factor. The aim of this study was to examine biomechanical changes in the lumbar segment of the spinal column among infantry unit members during multi-day carriage of combat equipment exceeding 35 kg, with emphasis on cumulative effects of intervertebral disc compression, changes in lumbar lordosis, and paravertebral musculature activity. Thirty-two active infantry members participated in the study (mean age 24.7 ± 3.2 years, body mass 78.4 ± 6.8 kg), who underwent a five-day field march with combat equipment averaging 38.6 kg. Measurements included magnetic resonance imaging of the lumbar spine before and after the protocol, surface electromyography of paraspinal muscles, and three-dimensional motion analysis. Results demonstrated statistically significant reduction in intervertebral disc height at levels L4-L5 (0.87 ± 0.23 mm, p < 0.01) and L5-S1 (1.12 ± 0.31 mm, p < 0.001), reduction of the lumbar lordotic angle by 8.4° ± 2.7° (p < 0.01), and significant increase in musculus erector spinae activation measured as a 34.7% increase in integrated EMG amplitude (p < 0.001). The original contribution of this research represents the development of a predictive model of cumulative spinal loading demonstrating that compressive force on the L5-S1 segment reaches a critical value of 5.23 times body weight after 72 hours of continuous load carriage, thereby defining a temporal threshold for mandatory spinal recovery periods. Results suggest that multi-day carriage of combat equipment exceeding 35 kg induces progressive biomechanical changes in the lumbar segment of the spinal column that require implementation of structured rest protocols and preventive interventions in military operations.

DOI: 10.65932/military-studies-2025-2-5 preuzmi

77–88

Modeling the spread of disinformation in hybrid warfare: application of complex network theory to campaigns in the baltic region

Milan Pantić

Hybrid warfare represents a contemporary form of conflict that integrates conventional military operations with unconventional means, including disinformation campaigns as a key component of information warfare. In this paper, we present an original mathematical model SIR-HW (Susceptible-Infected-Recovered for Hybrid Warfare) for simulating the spread of disinformation in social networks, adapted to the specificities of hybrid warfare in the Baltic region. The model is based on complex network theory and epidemiological models of information spreading, with the introduction of new parameters that reflect the characteristics of the target population: the degree of media literacy, linguistic segmentation of the network, and the effectiveness of institutional countermeasures. Simulations were conducted on synthetic networks that reflect the demographic structure of Baltic societies, with a special focus on the role of nodes with high betweenness centrality in the amplification of disinformation narratives. Results show that network segregation along linguistic lines significantly increases the penetration of disinformation in vulnerable segments of the population, while timely interventions at nodes with high centrality can reduce overall infection by 34–47%. The original contribution of this research lies in the identification of a critical media literacy threshold value (λc ≈ 0.38) below which disinformation campaigns achieve epidemic spreading characteristics, which provides operational implications for formulating policies of resilience to hybrid threats.

DOI: 10.65932/military-studies-2025-2-6 preuzmi

89–100

Legal status of private military companies in asymmetric conflicts: case analysis from the Sahel 2012–2023

Louis Claes

Private military companies (PMCs) have become indispensable actors in contemporary asymmetric conflicts, particularly in the Sahel region where they have experienced significant expansion over the past decade. This paper analyzes the legal status of private military company employees in the context of international humanitarian law (IHL) and international human rights law (IHRL), with particular emphasis on conflict situations in Mali, Burkina Faso, and the Central African Republic in the period from 2012 to 2023. Applying the method of legal dogmatics, comparative analysis, and case studies, the paper examines the applicability of existing legal frameworks, including the Geneva Conventions, Additional Protocol I, the 1989 UN Convention against Mercenaries, and the 2008 Montreux Document, to the activities of PMCs in asymmetric conflicts. Research findings indicate significant gaps in the international legal regime regulating PMCs, particularly regarding the qualification of the status of their employees as civilians, combatants, or mercenaries, which has far-reaching implications for issues of accountability and punishability. The case analysis of the Wagner Group in Mali demonstrates how the absence of a clear legal framework enables impunity for serious violations of international humanitarian law. The paper concludes that a thorough reform of the existing legal regime is needed, including the development of a legally binding international instrument that would explicitly address the specificities of PMC activities in contemporary asymmetric conflicts.

DOI: 10.65932/military-studies-2025-2-7 preuzmi

101–116

Psychological resilience profile in professional soldiers following multiple deployments to high-intensity conflict zones

Amin Sarkis

Multiple deployments of professional soldiers to high-intensity conflict zones represent a significant challenge to the mental health of military personnel, while simultaneously offering insight into psychological resilience mechanisms. The aim of this research was to identify key components of the psychological resilience profile in professional soldiers who have survived multiple deployments to active combat zones. The methodological approach was based on a systematic review of literature published in journals indexed in the Scopus database, with a focus on longitudinal studies, meta-analyses, and randomized controlled trials conducted on military populations that participated in Operation Iraqi Freedom (OIF) and Operation Enduring Freedom (OEF). Research results indicate the multidimensionality of the resilience construct, which encompasses individual factors (adaptability, self-efficacy, cognitive flexibility), social resources (unit cohesion, post-deployment social support), and organizational factors (leadership quality, perceived organizational support). Analysis of available literature shows that the prevalence of posttraumatic stress disorder (PTSD) increases proportionally with the number of deployments, with soldiers having two or more deployments showing significantly higher rates of PTSD compared to those with a single deployment. Key protective factors include high levels of adaptability measured by the Connor–Davidson Resilience Scale, strong unit cohesion, adequate post-deployment social support, and sufficient recovery time between missions. Neurobiological correlates of resilience include specific patterns of hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal axis functioning, with enhanced negative feedback as a marker of adaptive stress response. In conclusion, psychological resilience in professional soldiers represents a dynamic, multifactorial construct that can be identified, measured, and potentially enhanced through targeted interventions before, during, and after deployment to high-intensity conflict zones.

DOI: 10.65932/military-studies-2025-2-8 preuzmi

117–133

Military industry and technology transfer: civilian application of military innovations

Mohamad Benali

Technology transfer from the military to the civilian sector represents a key mechanism of technological progress that transforms military innovations into civilian products and services, generating significant economic value and contributing to solving societal challenges. This article analyzes the scope, nature, and economic significance of dual-use technology transfer in a global context, with a special focus on the period of intensive technological changes from 2019 to 2023. The research employs a mixed methodological approach that combines quantitative analysis of dual-use patents from USPTO, EPO, and WIPO databases with qualitative analysis of institutional frameworks and financial indicators of companies active in military technology transfer. Patent data were analyzed through the lens of sectoral distribution, geographical patterns, and temporal trends, applying statistical methods to identify key success factors. Results show exponential growth in transfer in the analyzed period, with the ICT sector dominating at approximately 35% of total transfers, followed by the medical sector (approximately 26%) which showed the greatest acceleration during the COVID-19 pandemic. The identified economic value of transfer reached 48.3 billion euros globally in 2023, with geographical concentration in the USA, EU, and growing participation of China. Transport and logistics show the most dynamic growth, indicating emergent transfer areas related to autonomous systems. The article is intended for policymakers in innovation and defense, executives in military and civilian industry, academic researchers dealing with technology transfer, as well as investors interested in dual-use technologies. The findings have practical implications for designing institutional frameworks, optimizing transfer mechanisms, and identifying future investment priorities in the context of growing technological competition.

DOI: 10.65932/military-studies-2025-2-9 preuzmi

134–147

Doctrine of “Total defence” in Polish military thought: from sikorski to wojska obrony terytorialnej (1934–2024)

Magdalena Zielińska

The doctrine of total defence — understood as the integration of military, civilian, economic, and informational components into a unified national defence effort — has expe- rienced a significant revival in Polish military thought after 2014, culminating in the formal establishment of the Wojska Obrony Terytorialnej (Territorial Defence Forces) in 2016/2017. This review study traces the genealogy of the Polish total-defence idea from its inter-war foundations in the work of Władysław Sikorski (Przyszła wojna, 1934) through the Cold War and post-1989 transition to its contemporary institutional form, and situates it within the broader Nordic-Baltic comparative context. The methodological approach com- bines a systematic review of post-2017 SCOPUS-indexed literature on Polish defence policy, strategic culture, and total-defence doctrine with primary-source analysis of Polish strategic documents and Sikorski's foundational work. Results show three distinct phases of the Polish total-defence idea: (1) the inter-war strategic synthesis that integrated mass mobilisation with mechanised warfare; (2) the marginalisation of the concept under the Warsaw Pact system; and (3) the post-2014 revival driven by Russian hybrid threats, culminating in the WOT as a structural institutionalisation of the idea. The original contribution of this article consists in the longitudinal mapping of conceptual continuities and discontinuities between Sikorski's 1934 framework and the contemporary WOT model, situated within the Nordic-Baltic total- defence revival. The study suggests that the Polish case represents a hybrid model in which Sikorski-era doctrinal heritage interacts with Nordic-style comprehensive defence and con- temporary hybrid-threat response, with implications for NATO's eastern flank deterrence architecture after 2022.

DOI: 10.65932/military-studies-2025-2-10 preuzmi

AIMS & SCOPE

PUBLICATION ETHICS

PEER REVIEW PROCESS

AUTHOR GUIDELINES

ARCHIVE AND ACCESS

INDEXING AND ABSTRACTING

COPYRIGHT POLICY

PLAGIARISM POLICY

RETRACTION POLICY

APPEALS AND COMPLAINTS

PRIVACY POLICY

ARTICLE PROCESSING CHARGES

SUBMISSION

Uređivački odbor

Volume: 3 Issue: 2 (2025) Serial Number: 4