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

Download or read book Non-Lethal Weapons and Strategic Policy Implications for 21st Century Peace Operations written by Paul R. Capstick and published by . This book was released on 2001 with total page 0 pages. Available in PDF, EPUB and Kindle. Book excerpt: 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.