The Arms of the Future: Technology and Close Combat in the Twenty-First Century

The Arms of the Future examines how the emergence of novel weapons systems is shaping the risks and opportunities on the battlefield, and how armies might be structured to overcome them.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 264 pages
Publication date: 05 October 2023
Publisher: Bloomsbury Publishing PLC

The weapons of warfare are undergoing a rapid transformation, driven by modern technologies that are reshaping the way armies intend to fight in the twenty-first century. From sensor-fuzed munitions and autonomous weapons to ground-moving target indication radar, laser vibrometers, and artificial intelligence, the arsenal of military capabilities is expanding in unprecedented ways.

The Arms of the Future, a comprehensive analysis by Dr. Jonathan Watling, delves into how the emergence of novel weapons systems is shaping the risks and opportunities on the battlefield. Drawing on extensive practical observation and experimentation, the book unpacks the operational challenges new weapons pose on the battlefield and explores how armies might be structured to overcome them.

In a time when defense spending across NATO is on the rise, and conflict with Russia raises new questions about what it means to fight a truly modern war, Watling examines not just the arms to be employed but also how they can be fielded and wielded to survive and prevail in future wars.

One of the key themes of the book is the increasing importance of precision and accuracy in warfare. With the development of advanced targeting technologies, armies can now strike targets with greater precision and reduce the risk of civilian casualties. However, this also creates new challenges, such as the need for accurate intelligence and the potential for unintended consequences.

Another important aspect of the book is the role of autonomous weapons and drones in modern warfare. While these technologies offer significant advantages in terms of cost-effectiveness and flexibility, they also raise ethical and legal concerns about the use of force and the potential for civilian harm. Watling examines the ethical implications of autonomous weapons and explores how armies can ensure that they are used responsibly and in accordance with international law.

The Arms of the Future also explores the changing nature of conflict and the challenges that armies face in modern warfare. With the rise of non-state actors and the increasing complexity of global security threats, armies must adapt to a range of unconventional warfare scenarios, such as counterterrorism operations and cyber warfare. Watling examines how armies can develop the skills and capabilities needed to operate in these complex environments and ensure that they are able to prevail in future conflicts.

In conclusion, The Arms of the Future is a thought-provoking and insightful analysis of the emerging weapons systems that are shaping the future of warfare. By examining the risks and opportunities that these technologies present, Watling provides a valuable contribution to the ongoing debate about the role of technology in modern warfare and the ethical and legal considerations that must be taken into account. This book is essential reading for anyone interested in understanding the evolving nature of military capabilities and the challenges that armies face in the twenty-first century.

Weight: 412g
Dimension: 235 x 158 x 15 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781350352957