Inhuman intelligence is important for US in fast-moving war

As the US begins to move against Islamic State forces, intelligence gathering on the ground, from the air, and through the airwaves is of paramount importance, write David Axe and Robert Beckhusen.

IN A fast-moving war with an elusive foe such as the Islamic State militants, information is as important as guns, jet fighters, and bombs.

Sometime early this summer, US special forces launched a raid into Syria in an effort to rescue several American hostages being held by the Islamic State militant group. But the commandos’ information was out of date. The captives were no longer in the target area.