ABSTRACT
This book explores the dynamic interplay between technological advancements and the evolving character of warfare in the 21st century. Against a historical backdrop of how geopolitical, societal, economic, military, and technological factors have shaped conflict, it critically analyses how emerging technologies – such as artificial intelligence, cyber capabilities, unmanned systems, and space-based assets – are redefining military strategies, tactics, and the broader conduct of war. The accelerating pace of technological change, driven by the Fourth Industrial Revolution, introduces unprecedented complexity into modern conflicts, blurring the lines between state and non-state actors, combatants and civilians, and kinetic and non-kinetic operations. Through contributions from experts in academia, industry, military, and government, this book examines key domains such as cyberwarfare, influence operations, unmanned systems, space militarisation, hypersonic weapons, and naval strategy, while addressing the strategic, ethical, and operational challenges posed by these developments. Emphasising the importance of adaptability, interdisciplinary collaboration, and resilience, this work aims to provide policymakers, military strategists, and scholars with critical insights into how technological innovation is reshaping global security and the future landscape of warfare.
