Organizational and Legal Principles of the Use of Unmanned Aerial Systems by the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine in the Protection of the State Border of Ukraine

In the article, the organizational and legal principles of the use of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (hereinafter – UAS) by the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine (hereinafter – SBGS) are examined to ensure effective protection of the state border. An analysis of the current regulatory framework has been carried out, including the Air Code of Ukraine, as well as specialized regulatory acts that define the procedure for UAS operation. The organizational structure of the SBGS, the mechanisms and practices of integrating UAS into border security systems, and their impact on increasing the operational responsiveness to threats and strengthening border security are separately considered. Particular attention is paid to the role of UAS in combined arms operations, especially in the context of the full-scale invasion by the Russian Federation. The technological capabilities of UAS are analyzed, including their ability to provide high situational awareness for personnel, accelerate decision-making processes, and facilitate the collection, processing, and analysis of intelligence data about the enemy. The peculiarities of organizing interaction between SBGS units and other military formations of Ukraine involved in repelling aggression are determined, and key technologies and methods of UAS operation integrated with information processing software are outlined. Given the rapid development of technologies, the article also examines the prospects for further integration of advanced UAS systems into the activities of the SBGS. In the context of global challenges facing the SBGS, an analysis of international experience in the use of UAS for state border protection is conducted. Successful practices of partner countries that have already integrated UAS into their security systems are reviewed, and potential opportunities for international cooperation of the border service are identified, which may include experience exchange, joint training, and standardization of approaches to UAS operation and legal regulation. The article identifies the main challenges related to legal regulation, technical integration of UAS, protection of acquired data, and training of qualified personnel. Based on the conducted analysis, recommendations are proposed for improving the regulatory framework, organizational approaches, and technological infrastructure to ensure the legality, security, and effectiveness of UAS use in SBGS activities. The proposed measures are aimed at strengthening Ukraine’s defense capability and improving the quality of state border protection in the face of modern security challenges.