War technology encompasses a broad range of equipment, vehicles, structures and weapons that have been designed specifically for use in combat. The military uses these technologies to kill or injure opponents, to communicate with each other, to transport soldiers and weaponry, coordinate operations, as well as to detect forces.
It is essential to understand the relationship that exists between war technology, and the tactics used by the military. Both are vital for the success. As an example, the hoplites and medieval knights in ancient Greece fought together as a close-knit unit because their technologies facilitated this behavior. The Germans also used tanks' superior firepower during World War II.
The technology used in warfare has changed over the centuries. Everything from the shape and size the battlefield, to the way the soldier himself or herself conducts the battle have been affected. The most significant changes have come in terms of a new generation of weapons, new ways to organize and train soldiers, and more efficient methods of command and control.
It is not uncommon for technological developments to be a result a number of factors. These can include political and technological changes as well as the desire to upgrade military capabilities. The need to protect the nation from new threats, such as advanced ballistic missiles and weapons of mass destruction, is another factor.
Modern nations seek out new technology to enhance their army’s capacity. The most effective way to use these capabilities is by using well-trained, experienced and professional armed forces.
The new technologies are likely to make a mark in many areas, including air and ground warfare, communications and even space warfare. These new technologies form part of an overall trend towards knowledge-based combat that is happening in many places around the world. They are likely to lead further changes in both military strategy and tactic.
To defend against weapons of mass devastation, we need sensors that can detect and monitor the presence and output of chemical, nuclear, and biological facilities. This will require better wideband radars, multispectral electro-optical sensors, and laser radars. These radars will also have to be accurate at detecting ballistic and cruise-missiles, quiet subs, and any other potential targets.
Unmanned aerial vehicles, or drones, are also being used more and more by all branches of the Armed Forces. The military must have these capabilities for monitoring the environment, spotting possible terrorists targets, and detecting and tracking the movements of enemy vessels and aircraft.
New advances in technology are made daily. These advancements shape the future of war, allowing our military to better respond to threats.
It is important to note that technology cannot solve all the problems of war. The importance of good leadership, quality soldiers and cohesive units is crucial.
The military can improve its abilities to fight and win in the future by identifying those technology enablers that will most likely disrupt the status quo, and by integrating these findings into a broader framework for predicting the outcome of conflict. We can avoid hyperbole, by not cherry-picking the technological possibilities that seem most promising at this time.