Non-Lethal Weapons and Strategic Policy Implications for 21st Century Peace Operations

Abstract

Non-lethal weapons are a relatively new and evolving area, with Department of Defense policy published in July 1996. Furthermore, peace operations have assumed a predominate role for the United States military with no reduction to these type missions in sight. For most peace operations neither conventional economic sanctions, nor a Gulf War type response provide the appropriate answer. However, scientific and technical advances in non-lethal technologies provide a valuable tool for our forces and government that could play a vital role in future peace operations. Although viewed most often as impacting the tactical level of operations, the potential impacts non-lethal weapons will have on strategic policy are important. This paper examines the pertinent technologies and policies, what issues are applicable, and concludes with recommendations for future policy.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Feb 26, 2001
Accession Number
ADA389780

Entities

People

  • Paul R. Capstick

Organizations

  • United States Army War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Biomedical
  • Ground and Sea Platforms
  • Human Systems
  • Sensors

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Chemical Warfare
  • Chemical Warfare Agents
  • Chemical Weapons
  • Employment
  • Foreign Relations
  • Incapacitating Agents
  • Malodorants
  • Military Applications
  • Military Science
  • National Security
  • Nonlethal Agents
  • Nonlethal Ammunition
  • Nonlethal Weapons
  • Sting Grenades
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare
  • Weapons Effects

Fields of Study

  • Political science

Readers

  • Defense Technology Research and Development.
  • Joint Military Operations and Doctrine.
  • Nuclear Non-Proliferation and International Security