O emprego de drones em reconhecimento nuclear, biológico, químico e radiológico (NBQR): análise de viabilidade no contexto tático do Corpo de Fuzileiros Navais

Abstract

This study aims to map the feasibility of employing drones, or Remotely Piloted Aircraft Systems (RPAS), in NBQR (Nuclear, Biological, Chemical, and Radiological) reconnaissance missions within the tactical framework of the Brazilian Marine Corps (CFN), in response to the rising prominence of hybrid threats and the operational complexity of contemporary scenarios. Adopting a qualitative, exploratory, and descriptive approach, the research analyzed doctrinal publications from the Brazilian Navy, North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) guidelines, international technical reports, and scientific literature on remote sensing in contaminated environments. The investigation included the characterization of NBQR threats, assessment of the Navy’s NBQR Defense System, a survey of sensors used by Reconnaissance Platoons, and a comparative analysis of international practices. The findings reveal significant operational advantages, such as increased reach, reduced human exposure, and real-time georeferenced data acquisition, while also identifying technical (sensor miniaturization and aerodynamic interference), doctrinal (system integration and decontamination protocols), and logistical (support infrastructure and energy autonomy) challenges. The conclusion is drawn from the alignment between these advantages and established foreign doctrines, demonstrating that while implementation within the CFN requires regulatory refinement and strategic investment, the integration of drones into NBQR operations is technically feasible and presents a concrete opportunity to modernize Brazil’s national response capabilities to complex CBRN threats.