journal article
Implications of Neurological Directed-Energy Weapons for Military Medicine
Abstract
Since 2016, there has been an increase in reported cases of intelligence officers and diplomats hearing pulsing sounds and experiencing neurophysiologic and cognitive symptoms. These varied and often intense symptoms manifest in ways similar to a traumatic brain injury (TBI) but without inciting trauma. Known formerly as “unconventionally acquired brain injury” (UBI), these events are now labeled “anomalous health inci-dents” (AHIs). Investigations of these incidents suggest rea-sons to be concerned that a specific type of neuroweapon may be the cause—a directed energy weapon (DEW). Neuroweap-ons that target the brain to influence cognition and behavior are leading to a new domain of warfare—neurowarfare. The implications and resultant stakes, especially for the Special Operations community, are significant. This article focuses specifically on the implications of DEWs as a neuroweapon causing UBIs/AHIs for military medical practitioners and suggests using a comprehensive strategy, analogous to that of chemical warfare or other weapons of mass destruction (WMD), to improve our preparedness for the medical reper-cussions of neurowarfare. © 2022, Breakaway Media LLC. All rights reserved.
Author keywords
directed energy weapon, neurowarfare, unconventionally acquired brain injury