DIRECTED ENERGY WEAPONS: ETHICAL IMPLEMENTATION OBSTACLES

Abstract

This thesis illustrates the historical vectors of missile superiorities improvements, a corresponding decrease in discrimination of intent, and weapon adoption struggles that seek to balance the necessity for victory over humane weapons and moral intents. Narrowly focused on lethality, these evolutionary conventional weapons improvements predictably resulted in an increased escalation into wars of attrition. Departing from the historical vector, directed-energy weapons (DEWs) are the next evolutionary step in improved missile superiority to offer non-lethal effects. DEWs still face the same adoption obstacles and tug of war between necessity and morality while facing additional criticisms from human and civil rights institutions with claims of unethical effects and intent. This research determines that DEWs are more humane when compared to conventional kinetic weapons due to non-lasting and reversible effects. DEWs adhere to the spirit of the Laws of War. The allegations that DEWs violate the laws are based on old ambiguous text and their illegitimate correlation to rightfully banned historical weapons of war. DOD DEW policy aligns with the various laws and codes. It is also postured to implement DEWs. This thesis recommends that a new strategic narrative is required to overcome anchored claims and violations and to familiarize political decision-makers and military leaders to better understand the technology and accept the shifting risks associated with DEWs.