Modern Warfare

Warfare has come a long way in the last century, from the wieldy guns of World War I to today’s high-tech rocket launchers. Advances in technology and the use of intelligence have completely transformed the battlefield.

For instance, although battlefield recon has been a part of warfare for ages, it was revolutionized after WWII by aerial reconnaissance. Aircraft such as the early Cessna Bird Dog could locate the enemy and direct attack aircraft. This era also saw the birth and rapid development of electronic warfare, employing radar and infrared guidance.

Of course the introduction of nuclear weapons during WWII greatly impacted warfare as well. With the Cold War came fascinating strategic weapons, such as the Boeing E-4. Nicknamed the “doomsday” plane, it was designed as an airborne command platform for the President, Secretary of Defense, and successors in the event of nuclear war.

Faced with the possibility of nuclear war, modern warfare in general moved away from the idea of “total war” and toward localized, smaller-scale operations using intelligence.

Electronic warfare became especially helpful in conflicts such as the Vietnam War. Aircraft like the Phantom II and Tomcat were equipped with radar and long-range missiles, allowing them to attack targets from far away.

Artillery & rockets also played a large role in Vietnam, providing close-range firepower. Aircraft could direct artillery from above and helicopters could transport artillery to new locations quickly. Light support weapons, such as grenade launchers, provided personal artillery.

Guerilla warfare during Vietnam also changed the face of battle. Ambush attacks by an unconventional enemy, as well as the introduction of civilians into battle, transformed the way the war was fought. Biological and chemical warfare were introduced to fight this new type of enemy.

Ground warfare has changed, as well. Today, this normally involves tanks or other
armored fighting vehicles for the purpose of battle and support. The Marines’ use of tanks during Desert Storm proved their effectiveness in urban combat.

On the sea, the Navy uses surface combatants such as cruisers, destroyers, and frigates to engage in anti-air and anti-submarine warfare (ASW). Most modern navies also have a large air support contingent, deployed from aircraft carriers.

21st century warfare is largely characterized by the use of intelligence and targeting information networks. Asymmetric warfare, often referred to as terrorism, has also played a large role in modern warfare.

Learn more about modern warfare with the following series. Watch footage of the various aircraft and artillery used over the last century, and learn about potential future developments. Each product features a DVD, as well as full-length book complete with photos, maps, and timelines.