What is the primary focus of nonlethal weapons in military operations?

The primary focus of nonlethal weapons in military operations is to manage situations without causing permanent injury or loss of life, which aligns with the goal of dispersing crowds safely. Nonlethal weapons are designed to incapacitate individuals or disperse groups in a manner that minimizes harm while still allowing for effective control of a situation. This capability is particularly important in scenarios where the use of lethal force could escalate violence or lead to unintended casualties, particularly in civilian populations. By focusing on minimizing injury, nonlethal weapons aim to maintain operational effectiveness while upholding ethical considerations in military engagements.

The emphasis is on ensuring that military personnel can achieve their operational objectives without resorting to lethal means, thereby promoting a more disciplined and humane engagement strategy.