Alternatives to Lethal Force

This article from the American Forces Press Service on "laser dazzlers" offers an interesting example of how technology can give modern militaries non-lethal options in their rules of engagement that can diminish casualties.

Nonlethal Capabilities Provide Alternative to Deadly Force
By Ian Graham
Special to American Forces Press Service

WASHINGTON, July 6, 2009 – When shouting isn’t enough to stop someone who poses a threat, nonlethal weapons provide an alternative to lethal force.

“Nonlethal weapons give warfighters crucial escalation-of-force options between shouting and shooting,” said Kelley Hughes, strategic communications officer for the Joint Non-Lethal Weapons Program at Marine Corps Base Quantico, Va.

“They help minimize casualties and collateral damage across the full spectrum of military operations -- everything from full-scale combat to humanitarian and disaster relief missions,” Hughes said during a July 1 webcast of “Armed with Science: Research and Applications for the Modern Military” on Pentagon Web Radio.

Read the whole article.