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Weapons that Changed War
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Crossbow
Popular in medieval times, the Crossbow leveled the playing field as it required less skill to use compared to a traditional bow.
M16 Rifle
First issued in the 1960s, the M16 rifle became the standard service rifle for the US military during the Vietnam War, influencing modern rifle design.
Atlatl
Used since approximately 30,000 BC, the Atlatl improved hunting efficiency and allowed humans to tackle larger prey.
Matchlock Musket
Appearing in the 15th century, the Matchlock Musket allowed for more reliable and quicker firing of weapons in battle.
Trebuchet
Widely used in the Middle Ages, particularly 12th to 15th centuries, the Trebuchet was the ultimate siege weapon before cannons.
RPG-7
Introduced in 1961, the RPG-7 was widely used in guerrilla warfare giving irregular forces a cheap and effective anti-armor weapon.
Humvee
Introduced in the 1980s, the Humvee replaced older military vehicles with its versatility and off-road capabilities in various conflicts.
Gatling Gun
Invented in the 19th century, the Gatling Gun was one of the earliest forms of machine gun that improved firepower but was hand-cranked.
Gunpowder
Invented by Chinese alchemists in the 9th century, Gunpowder fundamentally altered warfare with the introduction of firearms and artillery.
AK-47
Developed in 1947, the AK-47 became the most widely distributed assault rifle, impacting conflicts globally due to its durability and ease of use.
Greek Fire
First used by Byzantines in 7th century, Greek Fire served as a formidable naval weapon that could continue burning on water.
Longbow
Prominent in the Middle Ages, the Longbow was a decisive weapon in battles such as Agincourt, offering rapid fire and long range.
Cannon
First used in the 13th century, Cannons could breach fortifications and ships, drastically changing siege and naval warfare.
Chariot
Introduction around 2000 BC, chariots revolutionized transportation and warfare by allowing quick, mobile attacks.
Machine Gun
First developed in the 19th century, Machine Guns could fire multiple rounds rapidly, greatly influencing trench warfare in WWI.
Naval Mine
In use since the 18th century, Naval Mines have served as a cost-effective way to disrupt naval operations and block sea lanes.
Bazooka
Used extensively during WWII, the Bazooka gave infantry the capacity to destroy tanks and fortified positions.
Atomic Bomb
First used in 1945, the Atomic Bomb changed global politics and warfare with its devastating power, leading to the nuclear age.
Predator Drone
Developed in the 1990s, the Predator Drone allowed for remote-controlled targeted strikes and surveillance, altering modern warfare and counterterrorism.
Landmine
Landmines have been used since the 15th century, with modern versions developed in the 19th century leading to long-lasting impact on post-conflict regions.
Flintlock Rifle
Starting in the 17th century, Flintlock Rifles offered improved rate of fire and reliability over earlier muskets.
Torpedo
Developed in the 19th century, torpedoes changed naval warfare by enabling small vessels to threaten large warships.
ICBM
With its first successful launch in 1957, the Intercontinental Ballistic Missile elevated the Cold War tension and changed defense strategies with its nuclear delivery capability.
F-35 Lightning II
Debuted in the early 21st century, the F-35 Lightning II represents a new era of multirole stealth fighters intended to have global impact on air dominance.
Sarin Gas
First developed in 1938, Sarin is a lethal nerve agent used in 20th-century warfare that led to international chemical weapons bans.
Rifle Grenade
First used during World War I, Rifle Grenades enhanced the capabilities of infantry to attack fortifications and enemy cover.
Composite Bow
Developed around 3,000 BC, the Composite Bow had greater power and accuracy, enhancing the effectiveness of archers in warfare.
Tanks
Introduced in WWI, Tanks broke the stalemate of trench warfare with their ability to cross rough terrain and withstand machine gun fire.
Tomahawk Cruise Missile
Being used since 1983, the Tomahawk Cruise Missile allowed ships and submarines to conduct precision strikes from long distances.
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