Autonomous Weapons
Autonomous weapons can be considered as the third revolution in warfare, after gunpowder and nuclear arms. The word autonomous can be defined as “a capability (or a set of capabilities) that enables a particular action of a system to be automatic or, within programmed boundaries, ‘self-governing.’” It is incredible to think that we can now apply it to weapons. These machines will be able to select and engage targets using Artificial Intelligence (AI).
Where are we now?
Current world advancements in artificially intelligent weapons can best be described as semi-autonomous. Autonomous offensive systems can search and identify targets on their own but cannot engage without authorization from a human. This is sometimes considered the “sweet spot” because it increases efficiency by taking out the work involved in searching and identifying targets but allows a human to make the final decision. Autonomous defensive systems are completely autonomous and have been for years. They are able to identify and engage targets
without human authorization.
Examples:
Russian Arena: It uses a Doppler radar to detect incoming warheads. Upon detection, a defensive rocket is fired that detonates near the inbound threat, destroying it before it hits the vehicle. $300,000, 1100kg (2425 lbs)
Israeli Trophy: When a projectile is detected by the radar, the internal computer calculates an approach vector almost instantly, before it arrives. Once the incoming weapon is fully classified, the computers calculate the optimal time and angle to fire the neutralizers. The response comes from two rotating launchers installed on the sides of the vehicle which fire neutralizing agents, usually small metal pellets like buckshot. $300,000
German AMAP-ADS: The main elements are the sensor-countermeasure modules arranged all around the vehicle. A processor determines the type and the trajectory of the approaching target. Subsequently, a countermeasure module close to the calculated impact point is activated. This countermeasure ejects "directed energy", destroying or disrupting the approaching threat so that it cannot penetrate the vehicle. $800,000, 500kg (1100 lbs)
TALON: TALON is a lightweight, unmanned, tracked military robot designed and built by Foster-Miller, a company owned by QinetiQ North America. The robot is developed to protect warfighters and first responders against explosive threats.
Why?
Autonomous weapons are force multipliers which means that they increase the effectiveness and ability of a group of troops. Dull, Dirty, Dangerous.
AWs allow combat to expand into areas that were previously inaccessible.
AWs can substitute for human troops, therefore resulting in less casualties.
AWs can result in long term savings $250,000 : $800,000+
Why not?
Easy to mass produce
Get into wrong hands
Ideal for assassinations
AI can be used in other ways to make battlefields safer without killing people
Lower risk of human lives may result in more willingness to go to war