Modern weapons

Modern weapons is a subjective term used to describe the array of weapons available to a given society at any point in history that represents significant qualitative or increased sophistication improvements. Often weapons are referred to in terms of technology generations, and sometimes as being "revolutionary" in design although most weapon designs are evolutionary. Since the end of the Second World War, sometimes referred to as the post-modern period in history, weapons have been designed for a wide range of employment that did not exist previously, including counter-terrorist and space applications.

Types

For the common soldier, assault rifles (which are usually modular), along with submachine guns, shotguns, double-action only pistols and other crew served weapons are the newest weapons and are being used worldwide (for a variety of purposes as urban and field warfare).

For vehicle-mounted attack, several CROWS are being used today.

Current weapons

Assault rifles

The current generation of modern weapons are usually regarded to be made after the second world war, and are mostly of the assault rifle type. Many weapons such as the G36 and M16 have adapted Picatinny type rails which allow for many types of optics, handles, and grenade launchers increasing a soldiers effectiveness. They are capable of firing at a rate of 650-700 bullets per minute. They are high velocity impact weapons, firing inert projectiles at high velocities.

CROWS

The most common modern crew-served optical weapon system is the Protector M151. This system is often equipped with MPMG as the M2. The Metal Storm 36 barrel prototype is capable of firing at a rate of 1 million rounds per minute, but is far from being a usable weapon. [Perfect Weapon:Shootout documentary by National Geographic Channel]

Weapons under development

Directed energy weapons

Directed energy weapons have been developed in prototype forms for testing. Many laser weapons developed have demonstrated they are capable of defeating missiles and artillery at long rangeFact|date=June 2008. Directed energy weapons can be non-lethal when used against personnel and are being tested for crowd controlFact|date=June 2008.

References