The Revolution in Military Affairs (RMA) is a military theory that explores how new military doctrines, strategies, tactics, and technologies can cause fundamental and lasting changes in the nature of warfare. It posits that these changes necessitate the rapid adaptation of new strategies and doctrines. The concept originated from Soviet Armed Forces theorizing in the 1970s and 1980s, particularly by Marshal Nikolai Ogarkov, who termed it the Military Technological Revolution (MTR). The United States became interested through Andrew Marshall, head of the Department of Defense's Office of Net Assessment.
RMAs are characterized by the integration of advanced weaponry, information dominance, cyber capabilities, artificial intelligence (AI), and precision-guided munitions. They emphasize not only advanced weaponry but also information dominance, where data becomes as crucial as firepower. Historically, RMAs have occurred during pivotal moments, such as World War I with trench warfare and World War II with mechanized infantry and air power. Operation Desert Storm is considered the first major global conflict that successfully implemented RMA.
The implementation of RMA requires a critical understanding and significant infrastructure and investment costs. Some argue that a "true" RMA has not yet occurred, as much of the technology ascribed to it was in development long before the Internet boom. The focus has recently been on "network-centric warfare," aiming to connect all troops on the battlefield.
