An operational perspective on the ethics of the use of autonomous weapons

Arlington, Virginia | June 11, 2024 — The Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies announces a new entry in its Forum Paper series, An operational perspective on the ethics of the use of autonomous weaponsby Lt. Gen. David A. Deptula, USAF (Ret.), Dean of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies.

This essay, originally published by Cambridge University Press in its Journal of Ethics and international affairs, takes an operational perspective to examine the role that autonomous weapons systems can play in upholding the laws of armed conflict. He asserts that efforts by the international community to use international legal means and/or institutions to over-regulate or even ban lethal autonomous weapons are counterproductive. With responsible design and the integration of enforceable control measures, autonomous weapons will be able to not only comply with, but also enhance the ethical use of force.

The Forum showcases innovative concepts and thought-provoking ideas from aerospace experts here in the United States and around the world. As a means of providing opportunities for publishing thoughtful perspectives, the Mitchell Institute Forum provides high visibility for writing efforts on issues spanning technology and operational concepts, defense policy and strategy, as well as unique interpretations of evolving geopolitical relations.

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