The idea of waging war in orbit is no longer a figment of science fiction. As satellite technologies and launch capabilities have rapidly advanced, military powers increasingly see space as the ultimate high ground. But if World War III really does spill off-planet, what will the outbreak look like?
For this Giz Asks, we asked several experts how they picture the first week of World War III in space, and apparently things could get really bad, really fast. They warned that cyberattacks, strikes on satellites, and assaults on ground infrastructure would lead to global logistical chaos and debris-filled orbits.
Scott Shackelford
Provost professor of business law and ethics and vice chancellor for research at Indiana University-Bloomington. His areas of expertise include cyber security and privacy, international law and relations, property, and sustainability.
Here is how I envision the first week of World War III in space.
The first 48 hours wouldn’t start with a “bang” but likely with a “glitch.” We often talk about the Internet of Space, and just like the terrestrial web, the opening moves would be almost entirely cyber-based for purposes of plausible deniability and given the asymmetric threat.
You’d see massive, coordinated DDoS [Distributed Denial-of-Service] attacks on ground stations and sophisticated “spoofing” of GPS signals [deliberate manipulations of signals transmitted by GPS]. Before a single kinetic weapon is launched, the goal would be to blind the adversary. Imagine the chaos on Earth: global logistics chains freeze, high-frequency trading halts, and your Uber app—along with military drone arrays—suddenly thinks it’s in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. In other words, global chaos could quickly ensue, driving distrust and undermining confidence.
By day three or four, we move from soft interference to hard disruption. This is where the legal and ethical “grey zones” I study become a literal battlefield. We’d likely see the use of directed-energy weapons (lasers) to “dazzle” or permanently blind reconnaissance satellites. The most contentious issue here will be the commercial sector.
In a modern space war, companies like SpaceX are no longer bystanders; they are essential military infrastructure (SpaceX even has a ’StarShield’ infrastructure). The first week would force a series of legal questions: When does an attack on a private satellite constitute an act of war against its host nation?
If the conflict escalates to kinetic anti-satellite (ASAT) missiles by day six or seven, we face the “Tragedy of the Space Commons” on a galactic scale. A single destroyed satellite creates a cloud of thousands of high-speed projectiles.
In a “hot” space war, we risk the Kessler Syndrome—a chain reaction of collisions that could render specific orbits, like Low Earth Orbit (LEO), unusable for a prolonged period of time. We wouldn’t just be fighting a war; we’d be building a prison of shrapnel around our own planet. Think Wall-E, just a lot more depressing. Much of the resulting junk would burn up readily but others in GSO and otherwise could contribute to an already vexing problem.
We are far better at creating messes in space than we are at cleaning them up, and our current international legal frameworks—like the 1967 Outer Space Treaty—are unprepared for a world where the “final frontier” becomes a shooting gallery.
Wendy Whitman Cobb
Space policy expert whose research focuses on the political and institutional dynamics of space policy, public opinion of space exploration, and the influence of commerce on potential space conflict.
War in space, whether in the context of World War III or otherwise, is intimately linked to war on Earth. Nothing in space is done for space’s sake but to enable (or disable as the case may be) terrestrial operations or advantages. So if there is a World War III going on on the ground—complete with the existential threats to national survival that we might expect to accompany it—we expect similar results in outer space.
What exactly this would look like depends on the countries involved and what space capabilities they possess. For the purposes of this question, I’ll assume that the United States, Russia, and China are all involved in the war. If this is the case, we can expect actual attacks on space assets.
This would include kinetic attacks such as anti-satellite attacks (originating from the ground and on orbit) and non-kinetic attacks such as jamming, lasing, and blinding that would render satellites either permanently or temporarily disabled. We might also see cyber attacks on the computer systems necessary to operate space systems along with ground attacks on the terrestrial segments of space infrastructure (satellite downlink stations, launching facilities, etc.).
The goal of such attacks would be to disrupt operations on the ground and prevent the major combatants from being able to better see what is happening, communicate, or utilize the technologically advanced kill chains that depend on space-based systems to locate and destroy ground-based targets.
The consequences of such actions would not only be a complete disruption of space-based systems, but potentially significant damage to the space environment itself. Kinetic attacks create dangerous debris that could then hit other satellites, disabling or destroying them. Were a nuclear anti-satellite weapon used, it would indiscriminately destroy whatever satellites were in its vicinity.
The result of such things would be to make certain orbits or areas around Earth all but useless because of debris clouds. The danger of creating harmful debris is one factor that we believe tends to tamp down on open conflict in space, but if we’re talking about World War III, that is likely to be little use as a deterrent opening the door to attacks and reprisals that could ultimately result in rendering all space systems either useless or significantly degraded.
Bottom line: World War III would be disastrous for those of us on Earth. It would ultimately be reflected in outer space as well.
Peter W. Singer
Strategist and senior fellow at the think-tank New America, professor of practice at Arizona State University, and founder and managing partner at Useful Fiction LLC, a company specializing in strategic narrative. His book Ghost Fleet explores the future of war and space.
The initial phase of a conflict extending into space will likely involve silent battles in a realm where humanity has never before fought. Satellites—which underpin both our economies and military systems—could be targeted by peer satellites, rockets, lasers, and cyber attacks. Yet, despite the spectacular nature of orbital warfare, the ultimate victor may well be determined by two critical aspects rooted right here on planet Earth.
Rather than “heavens above,” the actual center of gravity in space operations remains the ground stations, fiber nodes, and undersea cables that facilitate space-based data. This means that space conflict might also see conventional and special operations task forces hitting key infrastructure, “global raids” targeting the terrestrial networks that bind the stars to the mud.
As this infrastructure is global, it might take place not just in the region of conflict, but around the world, in places like South America or East Africa or even in Antarctica. The goal is to strip away an adversary’s space-dependent advantages—GPS, precision timing, and secure comms—at the source.
The second aspect of space warfare that may well determine the conflict is the ability to get back into space. This involves not just launch infrastructure but resilient satellite production and inventory. If you want to win in space, you will need mastery of reusable rockets and a robust logistics backbone, allowing for the rapid replenishment of satellite constellations that have been blinded or neutralized.
The victor of the next war in space won’t necessarily be the side with the largest or most expensive satellites. It will be the one that successfully maintains its terrestrial links and orbital replenishment cadence. As such, don’t think of space as a static sanctuary; it is a dynamic maneuver space where the fight on Earth determines the conflict among the stars.
If politics makes strange bedfellows, war sometimes makes strange career paths. In her 20s, Iryna Terekh was a “very artsy” architect who viewed the arms industry as “something destructive.” Now Ms. Terekh, 33, is chief technical officer and the public face of Fire Point, a Ukrainian defense company. She and her team developed the Flamingo, a long-range cruise missile that President Volodymyr Zelensky has called “our most successful missile.”
Global naval power is an essential aspect of a nation’s military strength, shaping the strategic geopolitical landscape.
The United States Navy maintains its position at the pinnacle of naval superiority due to its considerable fleet and advanced technological assets.
Other prominent navies include the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy and the Russian Navy, which continue to expand and modernize their fleets, thereby escalating their global influence.
European powers, like the United Kingdom’s Royal Navy and the French Navy, along with the navies of India, Japan, and South Korea, hold considerable positions in the rankings due to their strategic capabilities and regional command.
Key Takeaways
United States, China, Russia, United Kingdom, France, India, Japan, South Korea, Italy, Taiwan, with mentions of Turkey, Egypt, and Bangladesh.
Naval power rankings consider fleet size, advanced technology, operational capabilities, and global reach. I.
Naval budgets underpin fleet expansions and modernizations.
The strategic positioning of navies and their global bases enable rapid deployment and influence over key maritime regions.
Unmanned technologies and AI are revolutionizing naval warfare, enhancing precision and intelligence gathering.
Navies are engaging in international partnerships and adopting new technologies.
Overview
Naval strength is no longer gauged solely by the number of vessels but by a composite of factors that include offensive and defensive capabilities, fleet diversity, operational range, and logistical support. Strategic positioning and alliance networks also play essential roles. Assessing power requires looking at personnel training, maintenance quality, and the experience garnered through active deployments and exercises.
Technological Advancements
The adoption of unmanned technologies and AI in navies has drastically changed maritime warfare. Navies incorporate these advancements to improve reconnaissance, stealth, and weapons systems. It results in enhanced precision in targeting and richer intelligence gathering, allowing for more informed decisions during complex operations.
Budget and Expenditure
Naval budgets are critical for sustaining and expanding maritime prowess. The United States Navy continues to hold a significant budget fostering advancements in technology and fleet expansions. Likewise, emerging superpowers are substantially increasing their naval budgets, which allows for modernization and the acquisition of powerful submarine fleets and a greater number of surface vessels. These expenditures reflect the prioritization of maritime strength in global defense strategies.
1. United States Navy
The United States Navy consistently holds the top position for naval capabilities, buoyed by its vast array of advanced vessels and extensive operational reach.
Fleet Composition
The United States Navy’s fleet boasts some of the most cutting-edge and diverse vessels in the world. They maintain 11 nuclear-powered aircraft carriers, which is a significant number compared to other nations. These carriers serve as the cornerstone of their power projection capabilities. Alongside these behemoths are a multitude of other ships:
Submarines: Includes 68 nuclear-powered submarines, both ballistic and attack classes.
Destroyers: Comprises over 90 Arleigh Burke-class destroyers.
Cruisers: Operates 22 Ticonderoga-class cruisers with advanced Aegis combat systems.
Amphibious Assault Ships: Contains 9 American and Wasp-class vessels.
Support Vessels: Extensive auxiliary fleet including replenishment ships, tenders, and hospital ships.
Global Reach and Bases
The United States Navy sustains an unmatched global presence, facilitated by a network of naval bases and forward-deployed units. Key locations include:
Middle East: Bahrain serves as the hub for the 5th Fleet.
This extensive network enables rapid deployment of naval forces, underpinning their ability to respond to global crises and maintain open sea lines of communication.
Personnel and Size: The US Navy is the largest naval force globally, with 349,593 active personnel, 101,583 in ready reserve, and 279,471 civilian employees.
Fleet Composition: Features 480 ships, including 290 deployable combat vessels, and maintains a substantial logistics and support fleet with 50,000 non-combat vehicles.
Air Power: Commands over 2,623 manned aircraft, supporting a wide range of naval operations and strategic missions.
2. Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy
In 2024, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army Navy (PLAN) maintains its standing as one of the world’s foremost naval forces, with significant advancements in both shipbuilding and regional influence.
Active Personnel: The PLAN has 300,000 active members, showcasing its large-scale manpower.
Aircraft and Ships: With over 600 aircraft and 537 ships, including 19 replenishment vessels and 79 submarines, the PLAN demonstrates extensive aerial and maritime capabilities.
Key Vessels: The fleet includes 3 aircraft carriers, 51 destroyers, 49 frigates, and 70 corvettes, highlighting its power projection and diverse operational capacities.
Shipbuilding Momentum
The PLAN’s continued focus on expanding and modernizing its naval capabilities is evident in its shipbuilding programs. It consistently launches advanced vessels across various classes, from destroyers to amphibious assault ships. Notably, the rapid commissioning of advanced surface combatants, including Type 055 destroyers, signifies a robust enhancement in maritime warfare technology and shipbuilding capacity.
Surface Combatants: — Type 055 guided-missile destroyers
Submarines: — Both nuclear and conventional types
Amphibious Assault Ships: — Capable of launching and supporting maritime operations
Area of Influence
The PLAN is not confined to its national boundaries but exhibits its power across regional seas and through an increasing presence in global waters. The strategic deployment of assets around vital maritime chokepoints, such as the South China Sea, underscores the navy’s intent to assert its influence far beyond the contiguous zones. Its expanding logistic and support network through the development of overseas military bases furthers its operational reach.
South China Sea: — Asserting claims and expanding presence
Global Reach: — Developing overseas bases for extended operations
3. Russian Navy
The Navy boasts a dedicated force of approximately 150,000 to 160,000 active personnel, underscoring its vast human resource commitment to maintaining and operating its extensive fleet.
Diverse Fleet Composition
Strategic Assets: It fields a significant number of submarines, including those capable of launching ballistic missiles, which form the backbone of Russia’s naval nuclear deterrence.
Surface Fleet: The Navy operates a wide array of surface vessels, from an aircraft carrier and cruisers to destroyers and corvettes, totaling over 355 ships.
Naval Aviation: With more than 355 aircraft, the Navy has a formidable aerial component, enhancing its reconnaissance, patrol, and combat capabilities.
Specialized and Auxiliary Vessels: The fleet is complemented by 56 patrol boats, 4 patrol ships, 18 special-purpose vessels, 60 landing craft, and 11 tank landing ships, among others according to navalnews.
Global Presence and Influence
The Russian Navy’s strategic deployments in key geopolitical areas highlight Russia’s commitment to safeguarding its maritime interests and exerting influence on international waters.
Modernization and Challenges
The Northern Fleet is undergoing extensive modernization, reflecting Russia’s emphasis on bolstering its Arctic presence according to CSIS. The fleet’s enhancement includes the incorporation of advanced icebreakers, new submarines, and cutting-edge surface vessels designed for the challenging Arctic environment.
Strategic Role
As a critical component of Russia’s defense strategy, the Navy not only secures the nation’s borders but also shapes regional dynamics and contributes to global security through its operational presence in international waters.
4. United Kingdom Royal Navy
The United Kingdom’s Royal Navy continues to assert its significance with advanced capabilities and global reach, with the Carrier Strike Groups being a pinnacle of its naval power, complemented by extensive overseas deployments.
Personnel and Capabilities: The Royal Navy, with 32,000 active personnel, operates a diverse and modern fleet, including two Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers and nuclear-powered submarines, enhancing its global reach and strategic deterrence according to Royal Navy.
Fleet Composition: Comprises 72 ships and 160 aircraft, featuring a broad mix of vessels for varied operational needs, including 2 aircraft carriers, 10 submarines, 6 destroyers, and 12 frigates, highlighting its naval strength and versatility.
Global Role: Engages in international security efforts, joint operations, and plays a key role in supporting UK’s maritime interests and alliances, continuing its legacy as a pivotal maritime force.
Carrier Strike Groups
The Royal Navy fields its power through their prestigious Carrier Strike Groups, which center around the Queen Elizabeth-class aircraft carriers, HMS Queen Elizabeth and HMS Prince of Wales. These state-of-the-art vessels are escorted by a fleet of Type 45 destroyers and Type 23 or 26 frigates, offering air defense and anti-submarine warfare capabilities. They are further supported by integral logistical support and submarine protection that enhances their operational endurance and sustainability.
Aircraft Carriers: HMS Queen Elizabeth, HMS Prince of Wales
Destroyers: Type 45 (e.g., HMS Defender)
Frigates: Type 23 (e.g., HMS Kent), Type 26 (e.g., HMS Glasgow)
The Royal Navy maintains a strong global presence through its overseas deployments, which enable it to project force, secure trade routes, and uphold international maritime law. Key areas of deployment include the Persian Gulf, where the UK has a naval facility in Bahrain, and the Asia-Pacific region, reflective of its commitment to freedom of navigation in vital waterways such as the South China Sea.
Persian Gulf: UK Naval Support Facility in Bahrain
Asia-Pacific: Continuous naval presence and exercises
Standing NATO Maritime Groups: Active participant
5. Indian Navy
In recent years, the Indian Navy has embarked on an ambitious journey to modernize and expand its naval capabilities, focusing on enhancing its blue-water operational capacity.
The Indian Navy’s expansion plans are geared towards achieving a 200-ship fleet by the end of the decade according to Economic Times. Central to these plans is the induction of the Vikrant-class aircraft carriers that will significantly boost the Navy’s power projection. They are also investing heavily in new destroyers, frigates, and submarines, including the Scorpene-class vessels, to strengthen their underwater warfare capability.
Strategic Partnerships
India has been actively engaging in strategic partnerships with major powers to augment its naval strength. A prime example is the agreement with Russia for the lease of nuclear-powered submarines, which offers a strategic edge in the Indian Ocean region. Collaborations with the United States, such as the Communications, Compatibility and Security Agreement (COMCASA), are pivotal for the Indian Navy’s access to advanced communication systems and technologies.
Strategic Force: With 67,252 active and 75,000 reserve personnel, the Indian Navy is a key player in India’s defense and regional stability, emphasizing maritime security in the Indian Ocean as per CFR.
Fleet Diversity: Operates 150 ships, 300 aircraft, including 2 aircraft carriers, 16 attack submarines, and 13 frigates, highlighting its modern and versatile naval capabilities.
6. French Navy
The French Navy maintains a strategic nuclear deterrent force commonly known as the “Force de frappe.” At the core of this force are the Triomphant-class ballistic missile submarines. These submarines are equipped with M51 SLBMs (Submarine-Launched Ballistic Missiles) capable of delivering nuclear warheads over considerable distances, guaranteeing a second-strike capability in the nation’s nuclear deterrence policy.
Overseas Presence
The French Navy’s overseas presence is characterized by a network of bases across the globe, including facilities in the Indian Ocean, the Caribbean, and Pacific territories according to a study. Their fleet includes a range of surface vessels such as the Mistral-class amphibious assault ships and Aquitaine-class frigates, which are instrumental in projecting French naval power and upholding maritime security on an international scale. They routinely conduct operations focused on maritime surveillance, protection of French interests, and participation in multinational naval exercises.
Global Presence: With 37,000 active personnel, including 7,000 civilians, the French Navy upholds France’s maritime legacy through a modern fleet and global operations.
Key Assets: Operates over 180 ships and 178 aircraft, including nuclear submarines, the nuclear-powered aircraft carrier Charles de Gaulle, and amphibious assault ships.
Strategic Operations: Focuses on power projection, anti-piracy, maritime surveillance, and international missions, supported by technological innovation and international cooperation.
7. Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force
The Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force (JMSDF) is recognized for its advanced technological capabilities and strategic focus on island defense. It engages extensively in international collaboration to enhance maritime security.
Island Defense Focus
The JMSDF operates with a clear strategic mandate: to protect Japan’s widespread archipelago. Japan’s geographic configuration necessitates a robust maritime force capable of quick deployment and sustained presence in the region’s surrounding waters. In pursuing its defense objectives, the JMSDF has developed an impressive fleet of ships and submarines, including its sophisticated Sōryū-class submarines, known for their stealth and advanced sonar capabilities.
International Collaboration
Japan’s naval strategy is not limited to national defense; the JMSDF also plays a significant role in international security. Engagements in joint exercises with allies, such as the United States, exemplify Japan’s commitment to maintaining a free and open Indo-Pacific region. The collaboration extends beyond exercises, including sharing of technology, intelligence, and strategic military assets to reinforce collective maritime capabilities.
Technological Prowess: The JMSDF, with 51,000 personnel, showcases advanced maritime capabilities with a modern fleet that includes destroyers, submarines, and helicopter carriers according to USNI news.
Strategic Focus: Prioritizes regional security, maritime surveillance, and disaster response, with helicopter carriers enhancing amphibious operations and defense capabilities.
International Engagement: Committed to fostering regional stability through international collaborations and joint exercises, despite constitutional limitations, ensuring Japan’s maritime interests and security in the Indo-Pacific.
The ROKN has a robust fleet that includes destroyers, frigates, corvettes, submarines, and amphibious assault ships. It maintains a focus on advanced anti-submarine warfare (ASW) capabilities and mine countermeasure (MCM) operations to safeguard its territorial waters and sea lines of communication, especially in the face of regional threats.
Maritime Strength: The ROKN, with 70,000 personnel, showcases an advanced fleet of destroyers, submarines, and amphibious vessels, aimed at securing sea lanes and deterring aggression.
International Collaboration
The ROKN is involved in various international operations and training exercises to enhance interoperability with allies. It participates in RIMPAC, the world’s largest international maritime warfare exercise, and frequently conducts joint exercises, especially with the United States Navy, highlighting a commitment to regional stability and collective security.
Collaborative Initiatives:
Joint Exercises: Regular participation in Foal Eagle and Key Resolve with strategic ally, the United States as per The Diplomat.
Humanitarian Missions: Active involvement in humanitarian assistance and disaster relief (HADR) efforts across the globe.
9. Italian Navy
The Italian Navy ranks among the most capable maritime forces in Europe, with modern technological advancements and a respectable fleet size. The force maintains a significant presence in the Mediterranean Sea and is integral to Italy’s national defense and international obligations.
Manpower and Fleet
The Italian Navy is staffed by a professional and well-trained workforce, adept at operating a diverse array of vessels. Its fleet consists of aircraft carriers such as the ITS Cavour, modern FREMM-class frigates, and Type 212 submarines, reflecting Italy’s commitment to maintaining a balanced and technologically up-to-date naval force.
Aircraft Carriers: 2
Destroyers: 4
Frigates: 10
Submarines: 8
Patrol Ships and Boats: 10
Amphibious Assault Ships: 3
Strategic Maritime Force: 30,923 active personnel
International Collaboration
Italy’s naval force is actively engaged in various international collaborations, enhancing its operational capabilities and strategic reach. The navy participates in NATO maritime groups and contributes to multinational security operations. Italy has also partnered with France in the Horizon project, creating advanced air-defense destroyers that are a testament to European naval cooperation.
NATO Maritime Groups: Active participation
Horizon Project: 4 Destroyers (with France)
EU Navfor Operation: Active involvement in anti-piracy missions
10. Taiwanese Navy
The Taiwanese Navy stands as a significant maritime force within the East Asian region, focusing on modernization and strategic deterrence to offset regional tensions and maintain sovereignty.
Key Maritime Force: With 40,000 personnel, the Taiwanese Navy operates submarines, surface ships, and aviation assets, focusing on maritime security and regional stability.
Fleet Composition: Boasts a diverse fleet of 128 ships and 28 aircraft, including frigates, destroyers, and corvettes, underscoring its capability to protect national sovereignty.
Taiwan’s naval capabilities are undergoing a comprehensive modernization process aimed at bolstering their defensive posture in the East Asian region. It operates a fleet that includes Kee Lung-class destroyers, Cheng Kung-class frigates, and a variety of missile boats and submarines, all crucial for the island’s asymmetric maritime strategies. Their focus on anti-access/area-denial (A2/AD) capabilities reflects the strategic need to deny or challenge adversaries’ naval operations in their territorial waters and the surrounding area.
3 More Worth Mentioning
11. Turkish Navy
Number of Units: 90
TvR (Total value Rating): 80.5
Serving as the maritime arm of the Turkish Armed Forces, the Turkish Navy has made significant strides in developing a robust domestic defense industry, underpinning ambitious naval projects. It possesses the capability to exert sea control in its adjacent waters.
A landmark development is the commissioning of the TCG Anadolu, a landing helicopter dock that has significantly enhanced the Turkish Navy’s global projection capabilities.
Capable of transporting over 700 naval infantry personnel, tanks, vehicles, and helicopters, the TCG Anadolu, inaugurated as the navy’s latest flagship on April 10, 2023, heralds a new chapter in Turkey’s naval operations.
12. Egyptian Navy
Number of Units: 107
TvR (Total value Rating): 72.4
Adopting a Western strategy for naval combat, the Egyptian Navy is tasked with safeguarding Egypt’s coastlines along the Mediterranean and Red Seas.
Submarines make up 7.5% of its total naval strength, highlighting its balanced force composition.
13. Bangladesh Navy
Number of Units: 50
TvR (Total value Rating): 58.6
The Bangladesh Navy plays a crucial role in protecting the nation’s maritime borders, spanning over 118,813 square kilometers.
Its primary missions involve defending key military installations, harbors, and economic zones, while also securing Bangladesh’s economic and military interests both domestically and internationally.
As the frontline force for disaster management within the country, the Bangladesh Navy additionally engages in humanitarian efforts globally, underscoring its dual role in national defense and international aid.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do current naval forces compare in terms of tonnage worldwide?
In terms of tonnage, the United States Navy remains at the forefront globally, with significant tonnage across its numerous naval units. The People’s Liberation Army Navy, representing China, also exhibits substantial tonnage due to its large fleet.
What advancements have been made in the most powerful navy ships ?
The most powerful navy ships, notably within the United States Navy, have seen advancements including the integration of new technologies such as unmanned systems, improved missile defenses, and the application of stealth features on vessels to enhance combat capabilities.
What is the ranking of European countries in terms of naval power for 2024?
European countries’ naval power sees the United Kingdom and France maintaining their lead, with modernized fleets featuring carriers and submarines. For detailed contemporary rankings, countries are listed on various defense and maritime-focused domains.
How does the size of the U.S. Navy compare to other leading navies?
The size of the U.S. Navy outmatches other leading navies, boasting a fleet that includes multiple aircraft carriers, destroyers, and submarines. China follows closely in terms of ship numbers, while Russia’s navy remains significant albeit smaller.
What historical naval power comparisons remain relevant in assessing 2024’s naval strengths?
Historical comparisons, while contextually different, still have relevance in 2024. Traditional metrics like ship count, tonnage, and firepower draw parallels to past hegemonies, showcasing the continued importance of robust maritime forces.
Conclusion
The significance of naval power remains evident in 2024, with various countries investing in advanced technologies and expanding their fleets. The United States Navy continues to lead with its unmatched global reach and technological superiority.
Collectively, these powerful navies illustrate shifts in the global maritime order, where traditional and emerging sea powers shape the dynamics of naval strength and presence. As they continue to adapt and evolve, these navies not only secure their nations’ maritime boundaries but also play pivotal roles in international security and global trade routes.
Disclaimer
All information presented in this text is based on our perspectives and experiences. The content is provided for informational purposes only and is a reflection of the personal views of the authors. We do not guarantee the accuracy or reliability of the information provided and shall not be held responsible for any inaccuracy, omissions, or inaccuracies.
The meta for the best guns in Modern Warfare 3has developed considerably since launch, and has evolved significantly since the Feb. 7 rollout of Season 2.
From the get-go, there were a plethora of guns to choose from in the latest Call of Duty because every gun from Modern Warfare 2 was also made available, alongside a host of new weapons. We’re not including those as there are far too many to choose from, and for the most part, the new MW3 guns are stronger anyway.
So if you’re looking to dominate MW3 multiplayer in Season 2, look no further than these 10 guns.
Modern Warfare 3 best guns to use in Season 2
The best weapons in Modern Warfare 3 are as follows:
MCW (assault rifle)
Rival-9 (SMG)
WSP Swarm (SMG)
RAM-7 (assault rifle)
BAS-B (battle rifle)
RAM-9 (SMG)
HRM-9 (SMG)
Holger 556 (assault rifle)
XRK Stalker (sniper rifle)
SVA 545 (assault rifle)
Believe it or not, the MCW is still the best gun in Modern Warfare 3 and has been since launch. It’s the most jack-of-all-trades gun you’ll find, as you can kit it out for long-range engagements — which our suggested attachments below are apt for — or to deal with enemies in close quarters if needed.
However, the list has been shaken up a little with the introduction of some new guns and balance changes through Season 1 and Season 2, skyrocketing the Rival-9 (the best SMG in Modern Warfare 3) into second place. The WSP Swarm isn’t far behind it, though, and the RAM-7 is still a solid assault rifle despite its significant recoil.
The BAS-B is by far the best battle rifle and the optimal choice if you want to engage in much longer distance firefights, while the RAM-9 and HRM-9 were seasonal additions that have quickly found their place in the meta. The Holger 556 is still very strong, the XRK Stalker sniper rifle is the best choice for any marksmen or quick-scopers, and the SVA 545 excels thanks to its ability to shoot the first two bullets almost simultaneously.
(As an aside, for anyone returning to this list from Season 1, the AMR9 and Riveter have both been dropped in favor of the Rival-9 and RAM-9, and the HRM-9 has been added to round the list out to a solid 10 entries.)
Let’s go through our updated selections for the best guns in Modern Warfare 3 one-by-one.
1. MCW (assault rifle)
Image: Activision via Polygon
Kicking things off is the MCW, which is unlocked at rank 44. Modern Warfare 3 doesn’t have real weapon names, so the MCW is best known as the ACR from previous installments. Which is all to day, the MCW is a very reliable assault rifle that is fully automatic, with consistent range, recoil, and damage.
Essentially, with the right attachments, the MCW becomes a laser beam. Any of the heavy barrels do the job — we’d recommend the 16.5” MCW Cyclone Long Barrel — along with any vertical grip, though we found the Bruen Pivot to be the best (which requires leveling the SVA 545 to level 12 first). As for the rest of the attachments, an optic is always a good shout for enhanced visibility, alongside any combination of muzzle/stock/rear grip that assist with recoil control and bullet velocity.
For more on how to kit out this weapon, see our dedicated MCW loadout page.
2. Rival-9 (SMG)
Image: Sledgehammer Games/Activision via Polygon
The Rival-9 wasn’t considered to be one of the best guns in MW3 on launch, but it has quickly risen to the top thanks to its fast fire rate. It packs a huge punch when you get up close and personal. As the meta has developed, running and gunning has solidified itself as a very strong style of play, particularly in Season 2.
Bearing that in mind — that you won’t often be engaging with enemies beyond a few meters away — you want to manage the recoil to an extent while also maintaining the weapon handling and mobility. We recommend the Rival Vice Assault Grip in the rear grip attachment slot, along with the Rival IGS-800 Barrel to deal with most of the recoil issues. Make sure you also stick the 9mm High Velocity ammunition on to deal the most damage.
3. WSP Swarm (SMG)
Image: Sledgehammer Games/Activision via Polygon
Next up we have the WSP Swarm, the second SMG on our list of the best guns in Modern Warfare 3. This gun is seriously powerful, but as you’d expect given its machine pistol form, it has a boatload of recoil. This means it suits a very aggressive style of play, and while the Akimbo attachment may be tempting to dual-wield hip-fire these bad boys, we’re going for something a little more reliable.
Your entire aim should be to reduce the recoil while also not hindering the mobility too much, so look for muzzle and/or barrel attachments that strive toward that goal. Much like the RAM-7 below, the WSP Swarm has a very fast rate of fire, so you can’t go wrong with an extended magazine either. You definitely don’t need an optic though, as the iron sights are absolutely fine and, to be honest, you’ll often find yourself hip-firing — if you can reduce the hip fire spread with any attachments, even better.
4. RAM-7 (assault rifle)
Image: Sledgehammer Games/Activision via Polygon
The RAM-7 was introduced in Season 1 and quickly found itself as a mainstay in the meta. It kicks like a mule but deals some serious damage. As such, you don’t want to kit it out for extremely long range, but it is one of the best choices at short to mid range for an assault rifle. A barrel or muzzle attachment that ideally silences the gun and helps with damage at range is key.
Alongside this, we recommend putting on an extended magazine thanks to how quickly the gun fires, then aiming to strike a balance between mobility, handling, and damage for the rest.
Tweak the attachments until you find the exact fit that works for you, or check out our guide to the best RAM-7 loadout in MW3.
5. BAS-B (battle rifle)
Image: Activision via Polygon
All the weapons in this list are fairly similar: fully automatic guns that are best at varying ranges. The BAS-B is no different. The first and only battle rifle on the list, this is the gun you want to switch to if our MCW build above still doesn’t have enough range for you. It doesn’t fire quite as quickly as the MCW, but each bullet packs way more of a punch, and once you have some recoil-managing attachments on there, you can put a longer-range optic on it, such as one of the 2.5x options.
When you’re in the opening levels of using the BAS-B though, we have just a few recommended attachments. The Bruen Venom Long Barrel is a no-brainer thanks to the range it adds, and the 30-round mag — or the 45-round once you unlock it — ensures you can mow down multiple enemies without needing to reload. We’d also recommend the Ravage-20 Heavy Stock, which you unlock once the BAS-B has reached level seven.
For more on how to kit out this weapon, see our dedicated BAS-B loadout page.
6. RAM-9 (SMG)
Image: Sledgehammer Games/Activision via Polygon
The RAM-9 was introduced at the start of Season 2, and is the newest weapon on this list of the best guns in Modern Warfare 3. It’s another SMG with a rapid fire rate, but the recoil can be managed a little better than the Rival-9 above, so this is better suited for slightly longer engagements. The must-use attachments are the ZEHMN35 Compensated Flash Hider muzzle attachment and the HVS 3.4 Pad stock thanks to how they assist with recoil.
Make sure you equip an underbarrel grip of some description too — our recommendation is the SL Skeletal Vertical Grip — and we found a rear grip also does the job, ideally the Retort 90 Grip Tape. The iron sights are usable here, but if you’d rather equip an optical sight for better visibility, any red dot sight will work.
For more explanation on these attachment choices and details on the best class to use with this SMG, check out our dedicated RAM-9 loadout guide.
7. HRM-9 (SMG)
Image: Sledgehammer Games/Activision via Polygon
The final SMG on the list, the HRM-9 with our build is actually very strong at a slightly further distance than you’d expect most SMGs to be effective. With that in mind, the Sonic Suppressor S muzzle attachment is a godsend as it buffs the bullet velocity, damage range, and it makes you undetectable by radar when firing.
It does mean the recoil control takes a minor hit though, so you want to use other attachments that help bring that back up. Any underbarrel grip geared towards that will do the job — our choice is the VX Pineapple — along with a rear grip and stock attachment. We’d recommend an optical sight here too, though a basic one like the Slimline Pro or Slate Reflector is good enough.
Our full HRM-9 loadout guide has more details on how to best utilize this SMG and the attachments to kit it out with.
8. Holger 556 (assault rifle)
Image: Sledgehammer Games/Activision via Polygon
Next up, we have the Holger 556, which is unlocked at level 37. Now, to be frank, there’s not a whole lot special about the Holger; it’s a reliable, fully automatic assault rifle that isn’t quite as good as the MCW or RAM-7. However, if you remember (and loved) the G36C from Call of Duty 4: Modern Warfare, this is very reminiscent of that.
As always, you’ll want to focus on recoil management and damage output when kitting out the Holger. Find barrel, muzzle, and underbarrel attachments that assist with that, then stick your optic of choice on and you’ll be good to go. It has a higher base damage but slower fire rate than both the MCW and SVA, so bear that in mind when finding the best attachments.
9. XRK Stalker (sniper rifle)
Image: Sledgehammer Games/Activision via Polygon
With its introduction in Season 1, the XRK Stalker took the crown from the Katt-AMR to be the best sniper rifle in Modern Warfare 3, and that’s thanks to its impressive damage and mobility, making it the prime choice for those quick-scopers among you. This is a position it’s held through the launch of Season 2.
Your goal needs to be to improve the ADS speed, re-chambering speed, and sprint to fire speed so you can pull up your gun and one-shot enemies with ease. To this end, we’d recommend having the No Stock stock attachment, alongside the Light Bolt and FT Match Grip. You should also equip an optic that isn’t quite so zoomed in as the default, as you’re unlikely to be sniping at range.
The SVA 545 is the first assault rifle you’ll unlock in the game, so while you’re grinding for the MCW and AMR9, it’s the one you want to be using. As soon as you unlock create-a-class you can equip it, and it comes with one very interesting perk: the first shot fires two bullets, almost simultaneously. This isn’t just the first shot of the magazine though; if you tap fire, you can ensure every shot is a twofer. It’s not overpowered or anything, but it is a nifty trick if you can get the hang of it.
As is always the case with assault rifles, you’ll want to manage the recoil on this, so we recommend an underbarrel grip such as the VX Pineapple, a barrel attachment that can improve the range and damage, and other attachments that support recoil management. It’s one of the only guns in the game with decent iron sights though, so you don’t need to stick an optic on it.
Despite the history-changing implications of battles on Endor and Yavin, the nature of war, especially within the Star Wars universe, is one of countless skirmishes across the furthest reaches of the galaxy. Unlikely heroes and allies come together to fight on land and in space, accruing small advantages along the way to inch toward their versions of victory. The same will be true for Star Wars: Unlimited, the newest entry into the hotly contested battle for players in the world of trading card games.
Its seventh project based on the Star Warsuniverse, Fantasy Flight Games’ latest effort combines time-tested elements from its past ventures, along with inspiration from other popular TCGs, to make Unlimited its most dynamic version of a galactic battle yet.
“We’re trying to go in a bit of a new direction with this game in terms of streamlining things and making a really fast back-and-forth game, compared to some of our past games,” said Danny Schaefer, a designer at Fantasy Flight, in an interview with Polygon.“We definitely picked up some elements from our past [living card games] as well as some of the older Star Wars games, as well.”
One of Unlimited’sdesigners, Jeremy Zwirn, also worked on FFG’s previous Star Wars: Destiny dice and card game, which utilized a fast-paced tit-for-tat action system, and helped port that to the rules and vision for Unlimited.
An early demo of Star Wars: Unlimited was held at Gen Con 2023.Photo: Fantasy Flight Games/Asmodee
“The turn structure is very quick, very interactive, and simplified,” Zwirn explained. “You don’t have something like the stack in Magic with confusing timing issues when things are happening. That worked really well in Destiny, so we wanted to carry that over to this game too.”
Another one of the game’s fundamental characteristics was borrowed from a different body of work altogether. Like many trading card games, Unlimited cards have a cost that must be paid in order to play them from your hand. But unlike Magic: The Gathering,which requires adding specific land cards that generate mana, Unlimited’sresource system is closer to Disney Lorcanaand Flesh and Blood’sapproach, games that allow you to use almost any card in hand as a potential resource.
“The Call of Cthulhu LCG had a somewhat similar resource system where essentially any card could be used as a resource,” Zwirn explained. “You resource one card per round, so you can eventually build up, get more powerful cards, and play them at a higher cost.”
As these varied inspirations gradually came together over more than three years of design, they eventually paved the way for more defining elements that the game’s creators introduced to make Unlimited exciting, replayable, and, in its own way, challenging.
Deck-building dynamics
Central to deck design are the game’s heroes and bases, which start on the board at the beginning of every game.
Similar to Flesh and Blood or Magic’sCommander format, Unlimited utilizes iconic Star Wars characters to serve as a deck’s primary hero. These include the likes of Luke Skywalker, Darth Vader, Boba Fett, Chewbacca, and plenty others. Likewise, base cards depict classic locations from Star Warsstories, from the swamps of Dagobah to the Death Star Command Center and even the Catacombs of Cadera on Jedha.
The heroes provide several important contributions to each deck. For one, they have built-in abilities that impact the game in a variety of ways. These heroes can also serve as units that do battle more directly with opponents. But most importantly, heroes and bases feature colored “aspects.”
Unlimited utilizes six different “aspects” that determine the play style and possible abilities of the game’s cards. Think of them like colors in Magic,the Pokémon TCG, Hearthstone,and countless other card games.
In Unlimited,the aspects are Vigilance (blue), Command (green), Aggression (red), Cunning (yellow), Heroism (white), and Villainy (black). An Unlimited deck must have a leader and a base — your leader then provides up to two aspect icons while your base provides one. Together, the aspects that your base and hero feature then shape the cards the rest of your deck can include.
“All those permutations of mix-and-matching a leader with different bases and different aspects can create an entirely new deck,” Zwirn emphasized. “Sometimes those bases can really make or break a deck, as well.”
To highlight the basic look and structure of Unlimited’sfuture decks, the design team shared a few examples that feature different leaders and bases, along with some of the cards that play well with those configurations. Zwirn points to the Cunning and Villainy Boba Fett deck as one example of the importance of maximizing heroes and bases to get the most value and synergy out of the remaining cards in the deck.
A deck by Jeremy Zwirn based on the hero Boba Fett, with his base set in Jedha City.Image: Fantasy Flight Games
“For the Boba deck, the card Cunning is an extremely powerful card that has double Cunning aspects. So to play it for only four [resources], you have to have a base and leader with Cunning aspects, which is gaining you tempo,” Zwird explained. “And the card itself creates probably the best tempo in the entire game; it can exhaust two units and bounce an enemy unit, all for four resources.”
When you break down these aspects further, you begin to see how they express the game’s play styles and color identities into classic card game archetypes.
“There are some very good aggro decks, especially on the hero side. Some very good control decks, especially on the villain side. And there are a variety of midrange decks somewhere in between,” Schaefer said.
However, don’t expect to see breakout combo decks when the game first hits shelves in 2024.
“We’re intentionally not leaning hard into combo, with the first set at least,” said Tyler Parrott, another designer on Unlimited. “There will be some combos eventually, inevitably.”
“There are combo elements to decks, but not really like ‘we’re going to kill you in one turn’ or infinite loops,” Schaefer added.
A deck by Danny Schaefer based on the hero Han Solo, with his base set to Catacombs of Cadera — also on Jedha.Image: Fantasy Flight Games
“The Han Solo deck is about as close to combo as you’ll get in Set One, with the ability to cheat out expensive cards a little bit ahead of time,” Schaefer explained. “It’s playing You’re My Only Hope with all the cards that look at the top of your deck. It’s not like a one turn kill combo, it’s more like I got my seven drop out on turn five, or my five drop out on turn three.”
Another intriguing aspect of Star Wars: Unlimited lies in its deck-building mechanics. Decks must be a minimum of 50 cards, with a limit to only three copies of any one card.
“It’s a bit less consistent than if you have four-ofs, obviously,” Schaefer said. “That was partially because you see so much of your deck in a given game, we didn’t want it to be quite as easy to always see your same cards over and over — especially in the first few turns.”
According to Parrott,50 cards is “also just a value that we’re familiar with. We have enough other games that have been 50 with three copies that we knew exactly what that was going to play like mathematically.”
Arenas of battle
One of the most unique elements to Unlimited, which fans of Star Warswill surely recognize as a recurring theme across the films and stories, are battles that occupy both land and space.
Unlimited features two arenas of play, ground and space, which are then occupied by respective units.
“One of the things we learned from the Star Wars LCG, it bounced off a lot of people for thematic reasons because the idea that Chewbacca could fight a Star Destroyer was a little bit too much of a stretch,” Parrott explained. “That was one of the big incentives to have the two lanes be separate.
Danny Schaefer’s Chewbacca deck finds its home on Hoth, naturally: “Chewy’s ability lets you play three drops or smaller and give them Sentinel, which means they have to be attacked. It’s really good for slowing the game down and stopping your aggro opponents from hitting your base. And the idea here is you play those cheap units early, stall things out a little bit, and then eventually either build up to some ramp or some removal, keep the game under control, then get to seven resources and bring out Chewy, who when he flips is a giant monster. He has Sentinel and he has Grit, which means his power goes up for each damage he takes. So once Chewy flips, it just locks down the ground and threatens to hit really hard. You’ve also got a couple eight drops in here for once you’ve gotten to that point, you can slam the door shut with your giant capital ships.”Image: Fantasy Flight Games
However, not only does this element make the flavor of Unlimited more authentic to its source material, it also adds an important strategic element too.
“Bringing the correct ratio of ground to space units is going to matter a lot,” Parrott said. “If you go to a tournament and you expect the metagame to be heavy on people playing space aggro, then now I need to add more space units to my deck to fight against the space units, and now my ground units maybe can be fewer and they’ll go farther in the game because that is now the uncontested lane.”
Play modes and organized play
Looking ahead, Star Wars: Unlimited will feature a variety of play modes, including 1v1 and multiplayer, where players bring pre-built or fine-tuned decks to battle at stores or other casual environments.
The game will also feature draft and sealed modes, where players can open a specified number of card packs to construct a brand-new deck on the spot.
Eventually, Unlimited will also introduce its own system of organized play spanning from weekly store events to galactic championships, though more details on the specifics behind organized play are coming down the line.
Star Wars: Unlimited launches in game stores globally on March 8, 2024.
Though Modern Warfare 3 formally launches on Nov. 10, multiplayer and Zombies will start to roll out at various times starting on Nov. 9, depending on your region and platform. Here’s when you’ll see Modern Warfare 3 release in your time zone, and what to expect from the full Modern Warfare 3 release.
When does MW3 multiplayer and Zombies release on PC?
Image: Activision
Modern Warfare 3 releases at 9 p.m. PST on Thursday, Nov. 9, on Windows PC according to an Activision blog post. Here’s when Modern Warfare 3 multiplayer and Zombies launches in your timezone:
9 p.m. PST on Nov. 9 for the West Coast of North America
12 a.m. EST on Nov. 10 for the East Coast of North America
5 a.m. GMT on Nov. 10 for the U.K.
6 a.m. CEST on Nov. 10 for west mainland Europe
2 p.m. JST on Nov. 10 for Japan
Modern Warfare 3 is playable on Steam and Battle.net, but not the Epic Games Store.
When does MW3 multiplayer and Zombies release on PlayStation and Xbox?
On consoles, Modern Warfare 3 rolls out on regional basis, starting at midnight on Nov. 10 in New Zealand (3 a.m. PST on Nov. 9). According to an Activision blog post, Modern Warfare 3 will “fully live worldwide” on PlayStation and Xbox by 10 p.m. PST on Thursday, Nov. 9. Here’s when Modern Warfare 3 multiplayer and Zombies will be live by in your timezone:
10 p.m. PST on Nov. 9 for the West Coast of North America
1 a.m. EST on Nov. 10 for the East Coast of North America
6 a.m. GMT on Nov. 10 for the U.K.
7 a.m. CEST on Nov. 10 for west mainland Europe
3 p.m. JST on Nov. 10 for Japan
Modern Warfare 3 is cross-gen, and will be playable on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S. Despite recent approval for Microsoft’s acquisition of Activision, which publishes Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 3, the shooter will not launch day one on Game Pass.
When Modern Warfare 3 goes live globally on Nov. 10, here’s some of what you can expect:
Across both the standard multiplayer and the Zombies mode, the Modern Warfare 3 pre-reason allows you to progress through 55 levels of Military Ranks, unlocking new loadout items along the way.
You’ll be able to complete daily and weekly challenges, in addition to challenges related to weapons, operators, calling cards, and the armory.
If you picked up the premium Vault Edition of Modern Warfare 3, you’ll get access to your Nemesis Operator skins and FATE weapon vaults.
Image: Activision
Completing all 15 missions of Modern Warfare 3 campaign will grant you various rewards for use in multiplayer, including four operators, four calling cards, and one weapon blueprint. You can see some in the graphic above, but Activision has all of the details here.
Modern Warfare 3 season 1 will start at an unspecified date in early December, and will introduce three new core 6v6 maps plus integration with Call of Duty: Warzone.
Modern Warfare 3 doesn’t officially launch until Nov. 10, but you can get early access to the campaign up to week beforehand. Hot off the heels of an open beta, it’s your second chance to play part of Modern Warfare 3 earlier than usual — if you’ve paid up, naturally.
Here’s when Modern Warfare 3 early access starts for the campaign, and what time campaign early access starts in your time zone.
How to get MW3 campaign early access
Early access to the Modern Warfare 3 campaign is available to anyone who digitally preorders the game — whether or not it’s the standard edition or the premium “Vault” edition.
What time does early access to MW3 campaign start on PC, Xbox, and PlayStation?
On Windows PC, where Modern Warfare 3 is available via Steam and Battle.net, campaign early access begins at 10 a.m. PT on Thursday, Nov. 2, according to an Activision blog post.
(Update, Nov. 1): Activision clarified in a blog post that Modern Warfare 3 campaign early access will go live on PlayStation 4, PlayStation 5, Xbox One, and Xbox Series X/S at the same time as Windows PC.
Here’s what that is in your time zone:
10 a.m. PDT on Nov. 2 for the West Coast of North America
1 p.m. EDT on Nov. 2 for the East Coast of North America
5 p.m. GMT on Nov. 2 for the U.K.
6 a.m. CEST on Nov. 2 for west mainland Europe
2 a.m. JST on Nov. 3 for Japan
If you’ve pre-ordered, you’ll be able to preload the Modern Warfare 3 campaign starting at 10 a.m. PT on Nov. 1.
A direct sequel to 2022’s Call of Duty: Modern Warfare 2, the campaign for Modern Warfare 3 continues the narrative of Captain John Price’s Task Force 141. Early access gets you the whole campaign, too. Like Starfield, Diablo 4, Mortal Kombat, and more big-budget games, Call of Duty is the latest tentpole to offer divergent release dates. In this case, Nov. 2 is for all intents and purposes the Modern Warfare 3 release date.
Alongside early access to the campaign, Modern Warfare 3 preorders include the Zombie Ghost Operator skin for the game’s multiplayer component, which officially goes live on Nov. 10. If you preorder the pricier Vault Edition, you also get:
The Soul Harvester Tracer weapon blueprint
The Nemesis Operator pack
Two weapon vaults
The battle pass for season 1, called Blackcell, plus 30 tier skips
Sarah Schachner, one of the most prolific and well-known composers working in video games, has issued a statement today saying that she will no longer be creating any music for Modern Warfare II or Warzone.
Schachner, whose credits as a composer and musician include the Assassin’s Creed series (Unity, Black Flag, Origins & Valhalla), Far Cry, Need for Speed, Bioware’s Anthem and Call of Duty games (Infinite Warfare, Modern Warfare & Modern Warfare II), posted the statement on Twitter, saying that she “can no longer continue to compose music” for Activision’s latest shooter.
“Over the past couple of months the working dynamic with the audio director has become increasingly challenging and I don’t see any path forward”, the statement says. “As of now, I am unsure of the status and release plan for the soundtrack as it’s been taken out of my hands.”
Those soundtrack plans have been the subject of fan curiosity ever since the game’s release, since it’s rare for a major blockbuster like this to come out and not have its official album accompany it. Schachner’s statement suggests that her “challenging” dynamic with the audio director (which Variety reports is Stephen Miller) is at least partly down to this soundtrack release, as she adds “what will be released on the soundtrack is not my artistic intent in regards to mixing and mastering”.
You can read the full statement below:
I am sad to say I can no longer continue to compose music for MWII / Warzone. Over the past couple of months the working dynamic with the audio director has become increasingly challenging and I don’t see any path forward. As of now, I am unsure of the status and release plan for the soundtrack as it’s been taken out of my hands.
While I don’t have any control over how the music is presented in-game, what will be released on the soundtrack is not my artistic intent in regards to mixing and mastering. Mike Dean was a part of the creative vision for the album as well as mixer Frank Wolf. We have soundtrack masters in hand from Mike which unfortunately you will never get to hear.
I would like to acknowledge the incredible hard work of the audio team as a whole, and I hope you still enjoy it because I put so much work and effort into it. The score features some wonderful performances by musicians Baseck, Brain Mantia, and M.B. Gordy. I’m truly appreciative of the outreach so far and I feel a responsibility to the fans to remain authentic in my approach with the game and its sound which I have been a part of creating for many years.
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