Strategic Assessment

Autonomous weapon systems that can apply lethal force without human intervention in the operating loop are increasingly widespread. The debate around the legality and morality of using such systems has intensified, and in recent years countries that have signed the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons (CCW) have also discussed the possibility of adding a protocol to limit the use and perhaps even the development of such systems. This article reviews the process in the international arena, presents the positions of some of the leading countries, and examines the significance of this process for Israel, which is a manufacturer, exporter, and operator of advanced military technology. It recommends that Israel align with countries that endorse an approach similar to its own, such as the United States and Russia. The article urges Israel to consider internal, official, and public regulation of this subject, like in the United States, in order to give clear internal guidance and be a positive leader in the international arena as well.