Joint use of manned and unmanned aviation in specialized aviation operations

Purpose. The article is devoted to current issues of joint use of manned and unmanned aviation in aerial operations related to firefighting. The cases of effective firefighting due to interaction of firefighting helicopters crews and unmanned aircraft systems are analyzed. It is noted that the joint work of these means can significantly improve the results of firefighting. Methods. The projects and programs existing in the world aimed at integrating the actions of unmanned and manned aviation in solving issues in regulating the use of airspace, firefighting, as well as in conducting military operations by armed forces are considered. Findings. Rational research directions are proposed, the results of which will substantiate the effectiveness of the above-mentioned means joint use in eliminating the consequences of emergencies. Research application field. Deepening into the aspects of the studied material will improve the efficiency and quality of manned and unmanned aviation joint use in aerial operations. Conclusions. Successful research dealing with the search for rational ways to implement joint actions of manned and unmanned aircraft and their results implementation in practical activities of EMERCOM of Russia is expected to ensure significant increase in efficiency of response to natural disasters in general.