War, Transformation and Asia-pacific Security ─ Technology and Future Security

This new book explores how the notion of a ‘Revolution in Military Affairs’ (RMA) may emerge in East Asia, particularly within the maritime (naval and air) realm of military operations and capabilities.

Malcolm R. Davis makes a clear case that Australia, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, Taiwan, and China will be well placed to exploit RMA capabilities such as ‘network-centric warfare’ capabilities, precision weapons, and advanced sensor capabilities. Furthermore, the current RMA in ‘information-led warfare’ is merely the foundation for truly revolutionary capabilities that look set to emerge over the next twenty years, including directed energy weapons; unmanned systems; cyber warfare; and high-speed platforms and weapons. Development of non-military technologies such as nanotechnology, information systems, and space capabilities, may also have profound effects on the future capabilities of maritime forces and the way wars are fought in the twenty-first century.

Ultimately any examination of military technology now or in the future must occur against an understanding and presentation of the regional strategic context. This book explores the strategic context in the East Asian region, considering the various actors’ aspirations and objectives, the regional security challenges, and the dynamic interaction between key states. It also explores how new military postures which may emerge from periods of revolutionary change will transform this strategic context in the future.