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Technology in Defense Today
Technological escalation
between two or more entities is the product of the mind and creative
invention. Escalation of technology not only results in the creation
of more modern objects, such as improved navigation
systems, more
refined military hardware and leaps in the collection of information;
but also can include the use of these material advancements for strategic
use.
The construction of the first submarines, used for exploration, took
place in the early 1600’s. By the late 1700’s, the first
submarines built for military purposes were partially the result of
improved technology. By the 20th century, submarines used batteries
for underwater propulsion, and ran diesel engines when running on
the surface and to recharge the batteries. All large modern submarines
utilize the technological leap of nuclear power and crews enjoy the
benefits that this technology provides.
Those benefits include being able to stay submerged for months at
a time, and most have the ability to generate oxygen for the crew.
Fresh water can be produced, and atmospheric monitoring systems ensure
the safety of the crew.
Modern submarines use inertial guidance navigation
systems while submerged.
To counter the problems created by drift error, Global Positioning
Systems are employed on occasion to obtain an accurate assessment
of position. Optical periscopes are rarely used in modern submarines.
Instead, photonics masts equipped with sensors that monitor infrared,
visible light, laser targeting and electromagnetic surveillance utilize
the most modern of technological advancements.
The decision to use advancements in submarine technology during World
War II temporarily provided Germany with a devastating weapon on the
open seas. Their decision to focus on the technology was motivated
by the fact that Great Britain had an overwhelming naval fleet. One
major innovation during this period that led to some of Germany’s
success, was the use of improved communications, encrypted using the
Enigma cipher machine. It is ironic this same machine eventually led
to their downfall when the cipher was decoded without the German’s
knowledge.
This fact also highlights the importance of information and its security,
and this is even truer today. Indeed, information security is as important
to the defense industry as it is to an individual nation’s security.
International terrorism constantly poses a threat to the security
of information for developed countries, prompting more countries to
seek technological advancements that protect this valuable resource.
Information security through technological advancements and updates
are the most reliable method to ensure information stays protected. |
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