PSYCHOLOGICAL READINESS OF DRIVERS OF COMBAT VEHICLES TO PERFORM COMBAT TASKS: ACTUALIZATION OF THE PROBLEM

Abstract

The article examines the semantics of the concept of «psychological readiness». Different concepts of the leading Ukrainian scientists from today's position were analyzed in order to realize the practical implementation of theoretical developments in modern conflicts, taking into account the beginning of hostilities in 2014, which later transformed into a full-scale Russian-Ukrainian war that continues to this day. The main attention is paid to such a category of servicemen (on contract and mobilized) of the Armed Forces of Ukraine as drivers of combat vehicles. In particular, the specifics of the work of specialists, problems and risks associated with the performance of combat missions (psychophysiological stress, frequent business trips and repairs of equipment, long-term stress, existential fears, etc.) are highlighted.

Based on the results of the survey, a number of actual problems faced by combat vehicle drivers during training and execution of combat missions from 2014 to 2023 were identified, such as: 1) growth of psychophysiological load; 2) carrying out long marches in different climatic and tactical conditions; 3) frequent business trips: 4) the constant need for repairs and maintenance of fixed equipment (including during off-duty time); 5) work in a situation of prolonged stress; 6) small number of personnel; 7) existential fear of death.

After processing the theoretical material and preliminary research, a number of urgent problems were identified, which need to be solved in a practical dimension thanks to the implementation of the following steps: 1) psychological screening of drivers in order to determine the actual psychological state before, during and after the performance of combat tasks using appropriate methods; 2) processing and specification of factors that allow you to clearly determine the degree of psychological readiness of the drivers of combat vehicles; 3) empirical analysis of influencing factors determining the dynamics of psychological readiness of personnel; 4) pilot implementation of the author's program of psychological training of combat vehicle personnel to perform combat tasks, taking into account the specifics of the activity; 5) development of practical recommendations for improving the organization of training for managers who work with personnel.

The specified steps, actions and methods require urgent implementation, as they are a guarantee of effective functioning and successful operations of the Armed Forces of Ukraine.