On Stable Ground: Remotely Operated Unmanned Ground Vehicles Enhancing Department of Defense Compliance with the Law of Armed Conflict
Abstract
The US government currently uses unmanned systems for a variety of combat missions and their use will only increase in the future. The use of machines to conduct actions traditionally completed by humans has resulted in a robust debate about the legality of using unmanned systems. Because most of the debate surrounds the USs use of Unmanned Aerial Vehicles (UAVs), there is a wealth of knowledge and analysis regarding whether the USs use of UAVs complies with the Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC). However, remotely operated Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) are closer in proximity to humans and they similarly conduct numerous missions on the battlefield, including improvised explosive devise clearing; intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance; and offensive engagement operations. Far less legal analysis exists on this important and growing area. Because UAVs and UGVs conduct different missions and operate in vastly different environments, the analysis conducted on UAVs does not directly apply to UGVs. The unique capabilities provided by UGVs increase battlespace awareness, improve strike accuracy, and mitigate against potentially harmful human factors. As a result, UGVs enhance DoD compliance with LOAC.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Mar 08, 2018
- Accession Number
- AD1176912
Entities
People
- Harlye S. Carlton
Organizations
- Marine Corps University