Electromagnetic Pulse Weapons as an Emergent Technology and Their Place on Battlefields of the Future
Abstract
The purpose of this thesis is to increase awareness of the viability of emergent technology weapons and their applicability within the realm ot Electronic Warfare. This thesis includes a definition and evolutionary history ot EMP weapons. It also discusses how this technology could severely hamper an enemy's ability to wage war without the collateral damage concerns traditionally associated with conventional weapons and do so without the strategic level consequences inherent to the overt use of lethal force. It discusses how incorporation of EMP\EMP weapon capabilities into the equipment, training, and doctrine of the armed services could substantially improve a military's effectiveness on the electronic battlefield. Additionally, it analyzes how this capability brings a new type of collateral damage onto the battlefield, and the potential impact of those unwanted side effects heretofore irrelevant to the employ of conventional munitions. Complexities in targeting and applicability in various environments are also reviewed. The thesis concludes that the decision to employ electromagnetic pulse weapons will offer an advantage to armed services in waging Electronic Warfare. Moreover it concludes, due to an EMP weapon's innate potential for extensive unintended collateral damage to unprotected infrastructures, targets must pass through a rigorous approval process prior to employment.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Apr 19, 2010
- Accession Number
- ADA603366
Entities
People
- Dale R. Behm
Organizations
- Marine Corps University