autonomousweapon

Autonomous weapon, or autonomous weapons system (AWS), refers to a weapon that can select and engage targets with limited or no human intervention. These systems can be fully autonomous, operating without human approval, or semi-autonomous, performing certain tasks under human oversight. They typically rely on sensors, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and robotic platforms, and may be deployed on air, sea, land, or underwater platforms.

AWS may perform target identification, tracking, and engagement in complex or high-risk environments, including contested battlefields. They can be networked with other systems or operate independently, and are capable of rapid decision-making in time-sensitive situations.

Legal, ethical, and strategic considerations surround autonomous weapons. International humanitarian law requires distinguishing combatants from civilians and proportional use of force; applying these rules to AWS raises questions about discrimination, accountability, and risk of malfunction. Debates revolve around meaningful human control, how much oversight is necessary, and whether bans or strict controls are feasible or desirable. Many states participate in discussions under the United Nations Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW) regarding lethal autonomous weapons systems, but as of the mid-2020s no binding global treaty exists. Some states advocate bans or restraints, others emphasize development for deterrence or defensive purposes, while others seek norms and transparency.

The development of AWS continues, with ongoing research in perception, decision-making, safety, and verification. The eventual legal status and adoption of autonomous weapons will depend on technical progress, international diplomacy, and evolving norms around the use of force.