Nonlethal Weapons: Impact and Utility Concerns for Operational Commanders in Future Conflicts.
Abstract
The role of today's military in future conflict is far from certain. Rapid changes and instability in the world's political arena may thrust our military into a wide spectrum of conflicts at a moments notice. In order to meet this ever-present challenge, the United States military must constantly be prepared for any crisis. From peace operations to war, the U.S. armed forces represent the instrument of power that must never lose. The coalition military success in The Gulf War set the standard for future conflicts. The media portrayed a high-tech military capable of decisively defeating an able opponent in record time with few casualties. Unfortunately, the next conflict may not be so accommodating and the carnage of war could once again return to American living rooms. One avenue to avoid this, to attempt victory without fighting, is nonlethal weapons. The role of nonlethal weapons in future conflicts is likely to increase on a continuous basis. Political and moral benefits, limited destruction, and the American public desire to avoid war casualties, will force increased development and employment of weapons that avoid killing. These weapons will offer the operational commander-in-chief(CINC) additional flexibility, thereby enhancing military effectiveness, in both war and operationS other than war. The ultimate goal is to achieve victory, impose our will, or maintain the peace with as few American casualties as possible. Nonlethal weapons cannot, however, be considered a panacea to cure the destruction caused by war. Many problems exist in the international community concerning their use. Current laws and treaties, possible negative impact on operational effectiveness, and ethical issues prohibit the employment of many non-lethal weapons. Additionally, some so-called non-lethal weapons may still result in death or permanent disability to their victims if used indiscriminately or incorrectly.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 13, 1998
- Accession Number
- ADA348809
Entities
People
- Kyle E. Garland
Organizations
- Naval War College