"Non-lethal weapons (NLWs) can be used to influence behavior by causing temporary, reversible effects, but there has been limited analysis regarding how the U.S. Department of Defense could or should employ NLWs. This report draws on psychological and group-dynamic research to evaluate whether, when, and how to employ NLWs in different operational and strategic contexts. The authors analyze multidomain vignettes spanning gray-zone situations, civilian encounters, and combat. For each vignette, the authors identify ways of effectively employing NLWs to meet U.S. and allied goals, the associated risks and challenges of employing NLWs, and desirable future NLW capabilities. The authors provide insights on NLW employment and recommendations for further NLW development."--
This report describes how non-lethal weapons can be used in diverse strategic and operational contexts by drawing on insights from psychology and group dynamics and providing vignettes of gray-zone situations, civilian encounters, and combat.
This report describes how non-lethal weapons (NLWs) can be used in diverse strategic and operational contexts by drawing on insights from psychology and group dynamics. Effective NLW usage is illustrated by vignettes in multiple domains involving gray-zone situations, encounters with civilians, and combat scenarios. The authors also recommend desirable future NLW capabilities to pursue.
