The Weapons That Defined the War on Terror

"The War on Terror stretched across deserts, mountains, and dense cities, forcing the U.S. military to rely on weapons that could adapt to wildly different environments and threats. From lightweight carbines to armored vehicles and drones, these tools shaped how America fought its longest conflict. Here, 24/7 Wall St. is taking a closer look at the weapons that defined this conflict."

"To identify the weapons used by the United States Military in the Global War on Terror, 24/7 Wall St. reviewed various historical and military sources. We ordered these weapons chronologically from when each entered service. We included supplemental information regarding the manufacturer, type, impact, and more on each weapon. Here is a look at the weapons that defined the War on Terror:"

"Understanding these weapons helps explain why certain technologies rose to prominence, why others faded, and how the U.S. adapted to an enemy that fought with ambushes, IEDs, and irregular tactics. By breaking down the systems that defined the conflict, we gain some insight into the evolution of warfare in the 21st century and the legacy the War on Terror leaves behind for future military planning."

The War on Terror stretched across deserts, mountains, dense cities, and remote valleys, requiring weapons that adapted to diverse environments and threats. Lightweight carbines, armored vehicles, drones, and other systems became central to U.S. operations. Weapons selection and development directly influenced tactics, force mobility, and mission profiles throughout Iraq and Afghanistan. The conflict involved prolonged counterinsurgency against irregular forces using ambushes and IEDs rather than conventional state adversaries. Chronological analysis of weapons entry into service reveals shifts toward precision, protection, and scalability that informed training, procurement, and battlefield decision making, shaping future military planning and capabilities.

Read at 24/7 Wall St.