The Impacts of Climate Change on Humanitarian Assistance and Disaster Relief Naval Missions

Abstract

This thesis conducts a qualitative analysis of utilizing unmanned aerial and surface vehicles to support the United States Navy humanitarian and disaster relief (HADR) missions. As climate change continues to increase the likelihood of natural disasters globally, it can be anticipated that the USN will be required to conduct a greater number of HADR missions. Additionally, traditional HADR missions incur large monetary costs and divert naval assets from potential missions that are vital for national security. This thesis analyzes the current naval assets, doctrine, processes and civilian capabilities that could be better utilized for executing HADR missions as global climate change continues to impact distressed nations.