Today's High-Tech Weapons

Nuclear weapons have played an important role in times of war and peace since they were first used in 1945. The use of these weapons has been a topic of strong debate for over 70 years. Readers explore both sides of the debate surrounding these weapons. They also learn the origin of nuclear weapons and the science and technology behind this game-changing development in modern warfare. The environmental impact of nuclear warfare is also addressed. Readers are introduced to this topic through informative main text, additional fact boxes, and photographs.

What kinds of chemicals are used to create chemical weapons, and what has been done to protect soldiers and civilians from chemical attacks? Readers will discover the answers to these questions and more as they take a closer look at chemical weapons, including their earliest uses and their most advanced forms. Accessible text and photographs explain the technology and science behind chemical weapons to readers, and fact boxes provide additional information. Readers also explore the various antidotes, vaccines, and protective clothing developed throughout history to counteract chemical weapons.

Military drones are often in the news. Readers will enhance their knowledge of this current topic as they discover the kinds of drones used as weapons in conflicts around the world. Detailed main text is presented alongside additional fact boxes and photographs to give readers a clear picture of the origins of military drones, as well as the technology used to develop these weapons and the ethical debates surrounding them. Examples of the way drones are used by the military are included, along with information about the ways militaries around the world are working to intercept these weapons.

Biological weapons are extremely dangerous, but militaries around the world are developing various methods to counteract these weapons, including vaccines and ways to clean areas affected by biological warfare. Readers explore the development of both biological weapons and the defenses against them. Accessible text and fact boxes clearly explain the history of these weapons, as well as the science and technology used to produce these weapons and to counteract them. Real-world examples of these weapons and the countermeasures used against them are included to give readers insight into a topic that's often in the news.

Bombs, mines, and IEDs are important parts of modern warfare. Through informative text and photographs, readers are introduced to the origins of these weapons and the advanced technology used to create them today. Fact boxes provide readers with additional information on a variety of explosive devices, including sea mines, antitank mines, and dirty bombs. Readers also discover the many ways the military is working to detect and protect people from these explosives, such as the use of bomb squads and bomb-sniffing dogs.

Guided missiles have been used by militaries around the world since World War II. Readers explore the history behind the developments in guided missile technology from the earliest uses of these weapons to the most advanced guided missiles used today. Detailed text, photographs, and fact boxes provide readers with a comprehensive look at the impact guided missiles have had on modern warfare. Readers also learn the countermeasures put in place to protect against the use of these weapons. What guides these weapons? The answers to this question and many more are found with each turn of the page.