Nonkinetic

Nonkinetic is a term used in military, defense, and security discussions to describe actions and capabilities that achieve effects without relying on physical projectile impact or momentum transfer. It contrasts with kinetic means, which involve weapons that impart kinetic energy through explosions, collisions, or projectiles.

Common nonkinetic domains include cyber operations (disrupting or degrading networks), electronic warfare (jamming or spoofing sensors and communications), information operations (propaganda, misinformation, and influence campaigns), and psychological operations. Economic tools such as sanctions and financial measures, diplomatic pressure, and legal or regulatory actions are also described as nonkinetic in some analyses. Some discussions also include nonkinetic effects from space-based or cyber-enabled disruption.

The line between kinetic and nonkinetic is not always clear: certain cyber or electronic actions can have physical or strategic consequences, while some traditional weapons operations can rely on non-destructive pressure or coercion. Nonkinetic strategies are often valued for reducing immediate casualties or enabling escalation control, but they can still cause significant harm, raise attribution challenges, and pose ethical and legal concerns.

In policy and doctrine, nonkinetic capabilities are considered complementary to kinetic options and are central to deterrence, resilience, and operational planning. The term does not denote a single, unified discipline but a broad category of tools and effects designed to influence opponents without traditional physical force.