The Future Face of Battle is an editorial publication about emerging military technology and the changing character of conflict. I started this publication because I have been following the rapid developments on battlefields around the world, from Ukraine to Lebanon, from Yemen to Colombia, and I am trying to make sense of them for my own sake and for others. I have written occasional stories about advancements in USV or drone technology, but never thought of attempting to place them within a larger, global context.
Until now.
Looking at how the Ukrainians have accelerated the development, production, and field use of novel technologies and tactics, I am sure we are not on the verge of the postmodern battlefield revolution. We are witnessing it firsthand. As a person fascinated by history, I think that now, for the first time, I get to be a “real-time historian,” analyzing these trends as they unfold.
True, not every news story will indicate an emerging trend. Some are, or will prove in retrospect to be, anecdotal. But after reading many (many) military history books, serving as a naval officer, and working with the defense industry, I feel reasonably equipped to point out trends and draw initial conclusions. Some will look idiotic in retrospect. Some will look tame in comparison with what eventually unfolds. But at least we will be able to say that we tried, in real time, to understand, highlight, and point out the trends that matter. I say “we” because I am not the only one trying to make sense of all this.
Thank you for following this publication!
Yotam
One note about the use of AI: I use AI to research and write some of the content published on this site. I certainly use it to create imagery that would otherwise be difficult or illegal to obtain and publish. But I make my own human selection of topics and conduct my own analysis. Like the warriors on today’s front lines, I am trying to balance advanced technology with human knowledge and judgment.
I hope I get it right.
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