Non-Lethal Weapons: A Place in the Tool Bag
Abstract
In Today's changing world, the military is facing challenges and missions that require different solutions and approaches. The one size fits all philosophy, does not necessarily work in a world where it is sometimes hard to distinguish the non-belligerents from the belligerents. In this era of uncertain and confusing conflict, non-lethal weapons technology offers the military and political leaders an option between doing nothing and using deadly force. They are not the solution or panacea to all problems and crises in the twenty-first century. They are an option and enhance capabilities. Their utility is the subject of much debate because of the concerns they raise with rules of engagement, risk, legal, and ethical issues. These concerns notwithstanding, non-lethal weapons have value in today's and tomorrow's military operations. They are tools that can provide a synergistic effect when used by the operational commander in conjunction with traditional forces and weapons. They are not stand-alone technology that will supplant the lethal technologies of today, but an augmenting and enabling force.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- May 17, 1999
- Accession Number
- ADA370695
Entities
People
- John M. Costello
Organizations
- Naval War College