Habilidades neuropsicológicas identificadas em operadores de SARP em contextos de alta carga cognitiva

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: The operation of Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS) in military environments involves more than mere technical mastery of the equipment. These professionals are subjected to long periods of surveillance, real-time critical decision-making, and high cognitive demands, which expose them to psychological risks such as stress, mental fatigue, and emotional exhaustion, even at a distance from the battlefield. OBJECTIVE: This systematic review aimed to investigate the neuropsychological skills essential to the performance of RPAS operators in high cognitive load scenarios. METHOD: A comprehensive search was conducted in the Medline, LILACS, Web of Science, Scopus, Cochrane, and Science Direct databases, following PRISMA guidelines, with registration in PROSPERO (CRD420251105385). Observational, qualitative, and experimental studies addressing cognitive performance in complex drone operations were included. RESULTS: Out of 478 studies initially identified, 29 met the eligibility criteria and were included in the final analysis. The findings revealed that the performance of drone operators is directly associated with an integrated set of executive functions, particularly planning, working memory, fluency, cognitive flexibility, mental workload, and decision-making. Evidence also highlights the importance of well-developed mental schemas, ongoing psychological support, and ergonomic adaptation of operational interfaces. CONCLUSION: Remote drone operations require a specific neuropsychological profile centered on executive functions that support decision-making, distributed attention, and operational resilience. When these skills are not adequately developed or supported, there is an increased risk of cognitive failures, operational errors, and adverse effects on mental health. This review underscores the importance of refined selection strategies, neuroergonomic training programs, and continuous psychophysiological monitoring to ensure safety, efficiency, and well-being in remote military operations.