Date of Graduation

Spring 2026

Degree

Master of Science in Defense and Strategic Studies

Department

School of Defense & Strategic Studies

Committee Chair

John Rose

Abstract

This thesis investigates the application of unmanned aerial systems (UAS) for both offensive and defensive chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN) tasks to determine if they serve as a force multiplier on the modern battlefield. As CBRN weapons reemerge as realistic threats alongside the rapid proliferation of UAS, the intersection of these fields presents unique challenges and opportunities. Through a methodology that examines the history of the UAS-CBRN intersection, military doctrine, and the status of UAS technology, this research evaluates the capability of current and emerging UAS against specific CBRN delivery, reconnaissance and surveillance, and decontamination tasks. The analysis conducted demonstrates that CBRN UAS significantly increase operational efficiency while reducing human risk, though current systems struggle with complex physical tasks. This study concludes that UAS are a critical force multiplier.

Keywords

unmanned aerial systems (UAS), chemical, biological, radiological, and nuclear (CBRN), weapons of mass destruction (WMD), drone warfare, reconnaissance and surveillance (R&S), decontamination, one-way attack (OWA), loitering munitions

Subject Categories

Defense and Security Studies | Military and Veterans Studies | Peace and Conflict Studies | Science and Technology Policy

Copyright

© Evan Jacob Martinovitch

Download

Open Access

Share

COinS