Why the U.S. Needs to Lead in Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems

Abstract

Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems (LAWS) represent and offer a potential revolution in military affairs on par with the development of precision weapons, perhaps even armed aircraft. While there are legitimate concerns about the safety and efficacy of these systems, the best way to address them is for the U.S. to drive forward their development, both internally and among its allies. The U.S. may need to bear some reputational costs in pursuing this end, but they are worth bearing given the context and stakes. By advocating and actively working toward developing, testing, training, and exercising autonomous systems, particularly among its allies, the U.S. can lead in the development of LAWS. This includes implementing safety measures and identifying scenarios for employment that comply with the principles of the Law of Armed Conflict (LOAC) and international law.

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Document Details

Document Type
Technical Report
Publication Date
May 12, 2023
Accession Number
AD1206126

Entities

People

  • Charles Gough

Organizations

  • Naval War College

Tags

Communities of Interest

  • Air Platforms
  • Autonomy

DTIC Thesaurus Topics

  • Aircrafts
  • Autonomous Systems
  • Autonomous Weapons
  • Employment
  • International Law
  • Law
  • Precision
  • Revolutions
  • Safety
  • Training
  • Weapon Systems
  • Weapons

Readers

  • Robotics and Automation.
  • Strategic Security Studies

Technology Areas

  • Autonomy