The Human Element
By Andrew Latham
July 14, 2025
Why Today's Military Innovations Won't Change the Nature of War
In the 1990s, the military world buzzed with the promise of a "Revolution in Military Affairs" (RMA), heralding a new era defined by cutting-edge technology and transformative strategies. Yet, as history has shown, the anticipated seismic shifts in warfare were often overstated, overshadowed by the enduring truths of human nature and the timeless nature of war. Today, as we stand on the brink of another supposed RMA driven by drones and artificial intelligence, we must confront a harsh and enduring reality: the nature of war remains unchanged. The human element—our motivations, fears, and decisions—continues to shape the battlefield far more than any technological advancement ever could. This article argues that, much like the RMA of the past, the current fixation on technological innovation risks neglecting the enduring centrality of the human element that has defined the very nature of war down though the ages and across the globe.
The 1990s RMA was characterized by an overwhelming belief that technology would redefine how wars were fought. Proponents argued that precision-guided munitions, advanced surveillance systems, and network-centric warfare would render traditional military strategies obsolete. However, as conflicts unfolded in the years that followed, it became clear that while technology could enhance capabilities, it could not replace the human judgment and adaptability that are essential in warfare. The Gulf War showcased the effectiveness of high-tech weaponry, but subsequent engagements in Iraq and Afghanistan revealed the limitations of relying solely on technology in complex, asymmetric conflicts. The human element—understanding the local populace, navigating cultural dynamics, and making ethical decisions—remained paramount.
Fast forward to today, and we find ourselves enmeshed in a similar narrative. The rise of drones and AI has sparked a nearly giddy excitement about a new era of warfare, with many experts proclaiming that these technologies will revolutionize military operations. Drones promise precision strikes with minimal risk to personnel, while AI offers the potential for rapid data analysis and decision-making. However, this enthusiasm often overlooks a crucial point: technology does not operate in a vacuum. The effectiveness of these innovations hinges on human operators who must interpret data, make strategic choices, and engage with the complexities of warfare. The belief that technology alone can dictate the outcome of conflicts is a dangerous oversimplification.
https://www.realcleardefense.com/articles/2025/07/14/the_human_element_1122409.html
