A Revolution of Warfare: How IEDs Transformed the Iraq War of 2003-2011

How did the Iraq war of 2003-2011 change the way that wars are fought today? What can be learned from the evolution of IEDs in the Iraq war of 2003-2011?
Humanity has been fighting wars since before recorded history. For over 200 years, researchers have investigated the causes, conduct, strategy, and consequences of war. The use and evolution of IEDs in the Iraq war of 2003-2011 provides evidence of a revolution in warfare. In modern warfare, the barrier to entry for a noncombatant to become a combatant has been lowered. To prevail against a power that holds the home territory advantage, a power that holds the advantage in terms of resources must prevent noncombatants from becoming combatants.
Future research should focus on the psychological factors that drive noncombatants to become combatants. Technology continues to change the battlefield. Further research should be conducted to determine how changes in psychology and cultural values affect the nature and outcome of conflict.