ABSTRACT
The rapid growth of western military involvement in humanitarian interventions and peace support operations (PSO) over recent years has prompted significant political and military interest in ‘new tools for new jobs’.2 Attention has focused specifically on the potential utility of novel equipment and weapon systems in complementing intervention actions in semi-or non-permissive conflict environments. Moreover, military intervention concepts and doctrine, particularly related to low intensity conflict, have undergone radical change.3 ‘Non-lethal’ weapon (NLW) systems have been viewed with particular attraction in some political and military circles because of their potential to contribute to the attainment of tactical, operational and strategic objectives, but at the same time minimizing casualties and collateral damage and ensuring the protection, cohesion and legitimacy of humanitarian/PSO forces.4 This potential is seen to be important for two principal reasons.
