With New Technology, US Tries Out New Way to Make War

Improvements in the technology used in military conflicts is changing the nature of military strategy. During the first Gulf War, the U.S. launched sequential major attacks across expansive fronts and engaged in direct combat to dismantle Iraqi defenses. Now, the strategy has shifted to one of 'simultaneous attacks' – coalition forces are using precision-weaponry to destroy psychological and intelligence targets within Iraq, bypassing pockets of armed resistance as much as possible. The new approach will enable U.S. forces to go "well beyond the activity of destroying an opposing force and achieve the ultimate purpose of war - to compel a positive political outcome," says the strategy's main architect, Air Force Brigadier General David Deptula. Success in Iraq could spur further technological advances. "Iraq will be the template for doctrinal changes and defense investments that will favor high-tech airpower and more special forces." says a key advisor to US Defense Secretary Donald Rumsfeld. – YaleGlobal