Civil-Machine Relations and the Changing Character of War

• In Event: Civil-Military Relations and US Foreign Policy

Abstract

History is replete with cases of new technologies causing changes to the character of war and the relations between militaries and their civilian leaders. From the introduction of gunpowder, to the tank, to precision-guided munitions, technological change has had significant effects on the organization for, and conduct of, war. Further, in those rare cases when a technology has demanded a new organization and doctrine, some scholars argue that a Revolution in Military Affairs has occurred. Today, however, the advent of cyber operations, quantum computing, and artificial intelligence promises not only the disruption of current military doctrine and organizations, but the transformation of society as well. This paper explores how these technological changes will affect civil-military relations in an environment where the military must partner closely with civilian sector to defend American interests, and decisions in war may be taken by machines.

Author

• Michael O'Hara, Naval War College