OPINION Vol.1, No.1 June 2013 - National Defence University

Fifth Generation Warfare
Theoretical Aspects. Even though 4GW framework is rather new, some observers are now
talking about 5GW. The proponents of 5 th GW assume that as US in particular and other states
world over in general develop robust capabilities to deal with 4 th GW conflict, insurgents or
terrorists will disperse to establish smaller networks supported by states or at their own for
ideological reasons, loyalties of people will hence shift from nation states to causes 11 . In the words
of William S. Lind, there were only three generations in the field of warfare since modern era and
the fourth denotes an end to this generation of warfare model. Above notwithstanding, 5GW
proponents’ first assumption of changing loyalties to ideas rather than nation-states has been
proven partially right during Arab spring. The second assumption regarding wide spread attacks as
a result of advancement in bio and nano technologies is still inconclusive even though two WMD
attacks one each in New York and Tokyo have been observed. Third assumption regarding nets
and jets war is also inconclusive as there is a growing realization of making internet and social
media more accountable and transparent and stricter immigration controls and imposition of curbs
on air travel.
Irrelevance of Earlier Generations of Warfare. In order to ascertain whether some new
technology or idea constitutes a generational shift or otherwise, it has to be seen that can it make
older generations of warfare irrelevant Following the notion that war's outcome is usually
determined by superiority in equipment could be deadly as technology is seldom the determining
factor as amply highlighted throughout the history. While it is true that tools can augment
concepts, the core concepts do not change and arguably dictate the development and
implementation of said tools. Over emphasis of fifth generation theorists on technology hence
might not bring a new generation of warfare.
Fifth Generation Warfare as Information Warfare. Naming Fifth Generation Warfare as
“Information Warfare” would mean an oversimplification, this representing only one of the
aspects. In order to ascertain that whether warfare has transformed into 5GW, following signs are
worth consideration:-
Technological advancement represented by the evolution of cyberspace especially the
Internet and tremendous improvements in nano and bio technologies.
The Possibility of processing a large number of data in cyberspace.
The use of Information to strengthen and increase the abilities of force.
Persuasion powers of media thus making it more powerful than ever at international
level.
Finally, fundamental shift in societies wherein they develop new concepts of war fighting
to overpower 2 nd and 3 rd generation armies.
EVOLVING CHARACTER OF WAR AS A RESULT OF
POLITICO – MILITARY CHANGES
Evolution of Warfare
While warfare has certainly evolved over the centuries and will continue to do so in times to come,
its nature has remained unaffected, the changes in its character have also been more contextual i.e. the
weapons used by warring parties, objectives, doctrines and concepts of adversaries 12 . Developing better
understanding about evolving character of warfare in general and 4GW in particular will thus require better
insight into the human nature.
Understanding Human Nature
We humans fight because there are limited resources and in order to satisfy our desires we have to
diminish adversary’s capacity for independent action. Human goal thus remains to survive, survive on own
terms and in turn improve our capacity for independent action. Life by implication is thus conflict,
survival, and conquest. Variety in responses, rapidity in actions, harmonizing efforts and exercising
initiative thus seem to be key qualities that permit one to shape and adapt to an ever-changing
environment 13 .
OPINION Vol.1 No.1 131 June 2013