On the Battlefield
Explore the resources on this page to discover how technology has changed over centuries of conflict.
See some of the technology soldiers fought with in the trenches.
Military Technology
The weapons and equipment used in combat have developed rapidly, particularly since the First World War. Each new conflict brings new obstacles to overcome and an ongoing race to improve technologies to both protect and defend.
The introduction of a flint tip to a wooden spear by Stone Age humans, in order to make the spear more effective, is an early example of a 'new technology'. The First World War was described as the first 'industrialised war' and led to a rapid development of many technologies in order to break the stalemate of trench warfare.
Many new technologies have been developed as a result of the 'arms race'. Much of our day-to-day technology can also be attributed to the advancements made in Military equipment, including computers and mobile telephones.
Downloadable resources
Objects of Interest
Links to Useful Resources
If you'd like to find out more about military technology, follow these links to resources from BBC Bitesize, the National Army Museum and Imperial War Museums.
Planning a visit?
Please use the contact form below to get in touch with our Learning Officer at Edinburgh Castle.