Integrating Unmanned Aerial Vehicles In Maritime Industry: from Theory to Operational Implementation Cover Image

Integrating Unmanned Aerial Vehicles In Maritime Industry: from Theory to Operational Implementation
Integrating Unmanned Aerial Vehicles In Maritime Industry: from Theory to Operational Implementation

Author(s): Dimitar Dimitrakiev, Ognyan Kostadinov
Subject(s): Economy, Transport / Logistics
Published by: Институт за знание, наука и иновации ЕООД
Keywords: UAVs; Maritime Industry; Risk Management; Situational Awareness; Maritime Security; Maritime Education; Operational Efficiency; Regulatory Compliance

Summary/Abstract: Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs) have emerged as transformative tools in the maritime industry, offering new capabilities from wide-area surveillance to on-demand logistics. This study examines the integration of UAV technology into maritime operations, addressing both theoretical potential and practical implementation. The scope encompasses key application domains – maritime surveillance, search and rescue (SAR), security and defense, and port logistics – analyzed through a comprehensive review of recent literature and case studies. The objectives are to identify how UAVs enhance operational efficiency, safety, and situational awareness at sea, and to outline the challenges (including risk management and regulatory compliance) in adopting these systems. The findings indicate that UAV deployment can significantly expand maritime situational awareness and response capabilities: for instance, drones enable continuous monitoring of vast ocean areas and rapid emergency response without endangering personnel. Real-world implementations, from environmental monitoring missions to drone-based deliveries, demonstrate improved efficiency and reduced risks compared to traditional methods. However, achieving optimal integration requires addressing technical limitations, developing robust risk management strategies, and ensuring appropriate training and regulatory frameworks. This study underscores the significance of UAV integration in maritime operations and provides a foundation for informed decision-making in future deployments

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