드론을 활용한 지역예비군 전력증강 방안 연구

Abstract

The recent Russia-Ukraine war and North Korea's persistent military threats have intensified the instability of the security environment. Simultaneously, the decrease in military personnel due to declining birth rates further highlights the strategic importance of reserve forces. Against this backdrop, this study explored measures to enhance the combat power of local reserve forces in response to changes in the future security environment, specifically focusing on improving operational capabilities through drone utilization. The research findings indicate: First, development of organizational structure and operational concepts is essential to enable local reserve units to perform diverse drone operations, including reconnaissance, attack, and counter-drone missions. This entails expanding the Surveillance and Reconnaissance Platoons of the Reserve Mobile Units into dedicated Drone Operations Platoons and establishing new Drone Operations Teams within Reserve Companies. Second, it is crucial to professionalize drone operators by requiring certification and to enhance the drone acquisition system to facilitate the military application of commercial drones, thereby establishing a practical foundation for operations. Third, a specialized reserve force training system for drone operations must be established, and educational infrastructure based on civilian cooperation should be secured to support the successful execution of drone operations. This study proposes measures to significantly enhance the operational capabilities of local reserve forces through the utilization of drones as an asymmetric force. These measures can function as a critical element for local defense in contingencies and contribute to strengthening the national defense posture.