Application of ArcGIS in the armed forces to optimize military planning
Authors:   Hetman Petro Sahaidachnyi National Army Academy, KRAVETS T. , PASCHETNIK V. ,   Hetman Petro Sahaidachnyi National Army Academy, BARANOVA T. ,   Hetman Petro Sahaidachnyi National Army Academy
Published: April 2024

The purpose of the article is to substantiate the advantages of using this software in comparison with a paper map. Theoretical justification of practical software studies. In modern conditions of military conflict, where strategic management and decision-making determine the effectiveness of actions on the battlefield, the use of advanced technologies becomes an integral part of the functioning of the Armed Forces. One of the key areas of innovation in this context is the use of geographic information systems (GIS), which provide unit commanders with the means to obtain, analyze, and use spatial information. This article is intended to review the practical experience of using GIS in the Armed Forces, particularly focusing on important aspects related to unit management. The basis of our research is the experience and use of the ArcGIS geoinformation system, which was used in the military. The main advantages and capabilities of this system from the point of view of the unit commander are considered, as well as how these technologies can improve leadership and interaction on the battlefield. Method. Methods of analysis of key system functions, including ArcMap, ArcScene, and other modules, were used to understand their potential for unit management. A comparison with paper maps was made: a comparative analysis of the effectiveness of the implementation of regulations on paper topographic maps and in ArcGIS software. Methods of systematization and generalization of scientific information: the advantages of 3D Visualization are highlighted, the study of ArcScene capabilities to improve understanding of the terrain in a three-dimensional format, details and advantages of using special tools for military analysis and management. The results. As a result of the study of the use of the ArcGIS geoinformation system by the unit commander, it was established that the implementation of ArcGIS significantly accelerates a number of actions related to the deployment of artillery, the time required to hit an unplanned target is reduced. Tactical planning is improved: the use of Military Tools for ArcGIS allows the commander to effectively manage and control the actions of his units and the enemy, the creation of tactical symbols and artificial maps simplifies the planning of tasks and responding to unexpected circumstances. The use of 3D Visualization in ArcScene allows you to get a three-dimensional overview of the area, improving the perception of the commander of the unit of the situation. Built-in functions such as centering and zooming in on the target make it easy to monitor objects in real time. The obtained results indicate the great potential and advantages of using the ArcGIS geographic information system in military management, which can lead to an increase in the efficiency and success of military operations. The scientific novelty is that although the ArcGIS software is in service with many NATO countries and is being implemented in the Armed Forces of Ukraine, it is determined that only this program should be used in the Armed Forces of Ukraine for digital maps and direct research that would determine the advantages of this product and analyze there are no particularities of application. The main focus of the research is on the features of ArcGIS application. The components of ArcGIS were identified, their analysis and prospects in the military sector were carried out. Practical meaning. As a result of the study of the use of the geographic information system ArcGIS by the commander of the unit, a significant potential for improving operational management and decision-making in the conditions of military operations was revealed. The use of ArcGIS allows you to speed up actions, improve tactical planning, provide three-dimensional visualization of the terrain and optimize geodetic calculations. The obtained results confirm the importance and necessity of using modern geoinformation tools in the military leadership to ensure the efficiency and success of military operations.