Military Technology: Has it Changed the Rules of Warfare

Abstract

This research report examines the impact technology has had upon the rules and laws which govern the conduct of warfare. Using examples from Operation DESERT STORM, such as stealth technology and precision guided munitions, as well as other technology which may or may not be fielded, such as blinding lasers, it discusses whether the standards for applying the laws of armed conflict have changed. More precisely, the author looks at the principles of collateral damage, military necessity, and discrimination. The author concludes that international standards have not changed and therefore do not require a nation-state which possesses such superior technology to use it. Finally, the author examines the area of information warfare and the insufficiency of law to guide the cyber warrior's actions.

Open PDF

Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
Apr 01, 1997
Accession Number
ADA399023

Entities

People

  • Karl A. Kaszuba

Organizations

  • Air War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Weapons Technologies

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Air Force
  • Aircrafts
  • Civil War
  • Collateral Damage
  • Directed Energy Weapons
  • Employment
  • Health Services
  • Information Warfare
  • International Law
  • Land Mines
  • Munitions
  • Precision-Guided Munitions
  • Second World War
  • Treaties
  • War Colleges
  • Warfare
  • Weapons Effects

Readers

  • Defense Technology Research and Development.
  • Strategic Security Studies

Technology Areas

  • Cyber
  • Cyber - Legality in Cyberspace
  • Directed Energy