Dynamic Inter-Dimensionality: A Revolution in Military Theory

The debate over the revolution in military affairs (RMA) has become one of whither rather than whether. Most commentators agree that profound and inescapable changes are taking place in warfare. The discussion now focuses on defining this revolution more precisely, determining the extent and type of changes that it will effect in the near and long term, and what if anything should be done about them. Much effort has gone into determining how technology will alter the conduct of war in the information age from the National Command Authorities to the individual soldier. Yet no one has addressed the central issue of how this revolution will affect military theory—the foundation of doctrine. The exploitation of new technology demands a corresponding revolution in military theory that explains war as a broad-based, Major Antulio J. Echevarria II, USA, is assigned to the Future Battle Directorate, U.S. Army Training and Doctrine Command, and formerly taught history at the U.S. Military Academy. 96 JUNIOR OFFICER