Do-It-Yourself (DIY) Warfare: A New Warfighting Paradigm

The article introduces ‘DIY warfare’, a paradigm where soldiers utilize advanced commercial technologies with support from private tech firms, and civilians contribute technologically, often near conflict zones. This convergence blurs traditional combatant-non-combatant lines, challenging existing warfare doctrines. Employing a ‘3Cs’ analytical framework—compute, compatibility, and collaboration—it explores the shift towards a decentralized, technology-driven conflict, highlighting the potential for increased operational flexibility alongside the complexities of civilian-military integration and reliance on private entities. This article suggests DIY warfare could significantly alter military engagement at the tactical level in the digital era.