Joint Doctrine for Nonlethal Weapons

<p>This study investigates whether the armed forces of the United States need joint doctrine for nonlethal weapons. The U.S. Department of Defense is gradually increasing its commitment of fiscal and manpower resources to the development of nonlethal technology; however published information that provides guidance on how and under what conditions to employ the technology is scarce. In particular joint doctrine for nonlethal weapons has not been developed. Joint doctrine is only one of several methods that can be used to provide operational commanders with guidance on the employment of an emerging technology. This study therefore focuses on identifying the optimum method for enhancing the combat effectiveness of U.S. military forces. Using a descriptive and qualitative analysis approach the study examines the purpose and functions of joint doctrine; the capabilities provided by nonlethal technology in support of national military objectives; and the current status of published information relating to the operational employment of nonlethal weapons. The study concludes that joint doctrine for nonlethal weapons by addressing a critical warfighting void will improve the combat effectiveness of U.S. military forces. The study recommends that the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff publish this doctrine by 2003 and proposes specific topics to be included.</p><p>This work has been selected by scholars as being culturally important and is part of the knowledge base of civilization as we know it. This work was reproduced from the original artifact and remains as true to the original work as possible. Therefore you will see the original copyright references library stamps (as most of these works have been housed in our most important libraries around the world) and other notations in the work.</p><p>This work is in the public domain in the United States of America and possibly other nations. Within the United States you may freely copy and distribute this work as no entity (individual or corporate) has a copyright on the body of the work.</p><p>As a reproduction of a historical artifact this work may contain missing or blurred pages poor pictures errant marks etc. Scholars believe and we concur that this work is important enough to be preserved reproduced and made generally available to the public. We appreciate your support of the preservation process and thank you for being an important part of keeping this knowledge alive and relevant.</p><br>