ADS

The 60 minutes piece prompted me to consider what else is out there about the ADS sytem, so here are a few links I found useful when looking into the U.S. military`s use of ADS.

Wikipedia (I know, not always the most accurate, but informative nonetheless). There is an interesting point made under the section labeled "Controversies".

Controversy as to the methodology of testing, in which volunteers were asked to remove glasses, contact lenses and metallic objects that could cause hot spots, has raised concerns as to whether the device would remain true to its purpose of non-lethal temporary incapacitation if used in the field where safety precautions would not be taken.

Again, keeping in mind that this is wikipedia, so its veracity may be in question, a good point is raised regarding testing conditions and actual use. A weapon may appear compliant with all necessary standards in the most ideal of situations, but what about in realistic use situations? I've been told that this is one of the controversies surround testing of cluster munitions. Apparently, when cluster munitions are tested, to establish dud rate, they are tested under very controled dropsites, with very level ground of a known density and with low wind. However, since the bombs are used in a myriad of places and under various conditions, the dud rate present in the testing zone never corresponds to the dud rate experienced in the field. I wonder if the testing of ADS systems under controled circumstances will also lead to similarly skewed results.

I also found it amusing that the ADS has been refered to as the Pain Ray.

Joint Non Lethal Weapons Program (I especially found the fact that they had a humans effects advisory panel interesting).