NCJ Number
178808
Journal
Journal of Counterterrorism & Security International Volume: 6 Issue: 1 Dated: 1999 Pages: 16-21
Date Published
1999
Length
5 pages
Annotation
As the number and type of non-lethal tactics and technologies increase, the U.S. military must adopt procedures and policies that permit their smooth and efficient integration into warfighting and peacekeeping tactics and doctrine.
Abstract
Most conflicts pose a fear of escalation, and the use of non-lethal weapons in the early stages of a conflict may reduce the risk of escalation and give diplomacy a chance to work. Unlike traditional military capabilities associated with lethal weapons, the mission context for the employment of non-lethal weapons is not always obvious. Military commanders must be prepared to reorganize their individual units for the efficient use of non-lethal weapons, to design specific unit-level training for each weapon, to establish safety standards and maintenance support, and to develop appropriate rules of engagement. In general, non-lethal weapons include systems design to achieve political and military objectives by providing a means to leverage or change an opponent's behavior while precluding the need to intervene with overwhelming lethal force. The relationship between the use of non-lethal weapons and information warfare tactics is discussed, and categories and criticisms of non-lethal weapons are noted.