Robotic Transformations in the Character of Warfare: Strategic Implications and Ethical Dilemma

Robotic modernisation lies at the forefront of military innovations that are transforming the character of warfare in contemporary times. In particular, the growing autonomy and AI augmentation in military robots could substantially alter the traditional conduct of warfare. This paper primarily evaluates the development, testing and deployment of Unmanned Ground Vehicles (UGVs) and Unmanned Underwater Vehicles (UUVs) being undertaken by the US and Chinese militaries. The rising autonomous capability of these robots could transform the character of warfare and, in turn, significantly augment military capabilities through greater force multiplication, enhanced precision and reduced risk to human soldiers. Nevertheless, these transformations could lead to the robotic arms race that might significantly amplify security dilemma among great powers and, in turn, raise the likelihood of a full-fledged conflict. Additionally, the robotic transformations and growing autonomy in warfare cause ethical concerns in terms of dehumanisation of warfare, erosion of accountability and unpredictability associated with AI’s black box problem. Lastly, the paper offers a set of pragmatic measures that could minimise the downsides of military robots while advocating human-in-the-loop model.