Weapons of war have evolved through the centuries, with military forces around the world constantly innovating and adapting to the changing needs of combat. In the past, living creatures were sometimes used as instruments of warfare, such as dogs. The Soviets used them as suicide bombers, and North Korea employed similar tactics. The Germans also demonstrated their creativity with the development of the Goliath tracked mines during World War II, a type of remote-controlled bomb that resulted in the production of more than 7,500 single-use weapons. These examples reflect the diverse applications of both human and animal resources in the pursuit of military advantage.

Throughout history, siege and armored warfare have also seen significant advancements, as evidenced by the Assyrian siege towers from the 9th and 8th centuries BCE. These massive structures were designed to breach the walls of enemy fortifications, and their legacy can be seen in later military innovations like the Tsar Tank, which was developed by Imperial Russia in 1914. Despite its eventual failure, the Tsar Tank demonstrated an early attempt at creating heavily armored vehicles for combat. Fast forward to modern times, and the US military is researching pulsed energy projectiles (PEP), a type of non-lethal weapon that could revolutionize combat by reducing the loss of life while still providing effective means of defense. This shift represents the growing focus on finding methods of engagement that minimize harm while maintaining military effectiveness.

The development of personal protective gear and combat armaments has also been a constant throughout history, with innovations that have made warfare more efficient and safer for soldiers. The invention of Kevlar in 1965 by Stephanie Louise Kwolek, which is used in bulletproof vests, reflects a significant leap forward in personal protection, much like the Roman centurions’ use of the gladius. This short sword was designed to maximize the effectiveness of soldiers in close combat, marking an evolution in weapon design to address specific needs in battle. As warfare has advanced, so have the weapons used. The ancient Egyptians, for instance, were the first to master the use of chariots, introduced by the Hyksos around 1650 BCE, which enabled faster mobility and enhanced battlefield effectiveness. Similarly, Robert Mainhardt and Art Biehl’s development of gyrojet guns in the 1960s marked an attempt to push the boundaries of traditional firearms.

The progression of weaponry is not only defined by the evolution of firearms but also by the continuous exploration of new technologies and strategies. In recent years, the US military’s transition from the M16 to the M4A1 carbine in 2010 marked a shift towards more compact and versatile weapons. Meanwhile, older strategies, such as the “Parthian shot” practiced by ancient Iranian peoples, continue to influence modern military tactics. This highlights how historical methods of warfare still hold relevance in contemporary military doctrines, even as new weapons are developed. Unique and experimental weapons, such as the urumi from India, an ancient flexible sword, also remind us that some military tools transcend time and continue to spark curiosity and innovation.

Even as technology advances, some ambitious weapons projects have faced setbacks. For instance, high-cost airborne lasers, which were once expected to revolutionize combat, have been scrapped due to technical and financial challenges. On the other hand, non-lethal weapons like the vortex ring gun and the personnel halting and stimulation response rifle (PHASR) represent a growing interest in alternative methods of engagement that can disable or deter enemies without causing fatalities. These non-lethal technologies are increasingly seen as a way to resolve conflicts while minimizing harm, especially in scenarios where traditional methods of warfare may be deemed excessive or inappropriate. The ongoing exploration of these weapons shows that military forces are continually adapting to new challenges and looking for ways to engage in combat that align with evolving ethical standards.

The history of weapons development, from ancient tools like the gladius to futuristic non-lethal weapons, demonstrates the breadth of human ingenuity applied to the science of war. The countless variations in weaponry reflect both the changing nature of combat and the persistent quest for dominance in battle. Whether it’s the bizarre or the practical, each new invention adds a chapter to the story of warfare, from ancient civilizations to the speculative future of conflict. As we look ahead, the future of weapons and combat strategies will undoubtedly continue to evolve, with innovation playing a key role in shaping how conflicts are resolved in the years to come.