Ebook: The security-policy effects of digitisation: Future forms of conflict and conflict management

The autonomy of machines is the most important
future trend in the digital age. With regard
to weapon systems, autonomy promises to act
as a force multiplier and to permit higher operational
speeds and more precise effects. However, in matters
of conflict management, the elimination of human
control carries operational risks of a legal and ethical
nature as well as strategic risks due to new, escalation-
prone forms of conflict. As regards a Bundeswehr
use of autonomous weapon systems, this report
thus recommends a nuanced approach that helps
the Bundeswehr exploit potential advantages while
minimising the risks. On a national level, this approach
includes preparing a policy document to make sure
that the selection and engagement of targets always
remains under meaningful human control except for
defensive systems. On an international level, it encompasses
efforts toward an international, verifiable set of
regulations on autonomy in weapon systems that are
legally binding under international law.