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The widespread adoption of unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) in military operations has profoundly transformed modern warfare, introducing new combat paradigms that significantly affect the psychological well-being of service members. This review systematically examines the primary applications of UAVs on the battlefield and explores the complex relationship between UAV warfare and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) among military personnel. It analyses the unique psychological stressors associated with UAV operations, such as the moral dilemmas of remote killing, the persistent tension from continuous surveillance and trauma exposure patterns that differ from those in traditional combat. By integrating recent advances in molecular biology, neuroimaging and clinical psychology, this review highlights the epidemiological characteristics, neurobiological mechanisms, clinical manifestations and treatment challenges of PTSD in both UAV operators and ground troops affected by UAV activities. By providing a comprehensive perspective on the mental health issues stemming from this novel mode of warfare, this article aims to inform the development of targeted prevention and intervention strategies to better support the psychological resilience of military personnel in the era of unmanned combat.