Autonomous Weapon Systems and Autonomous Cyber Weapons: Convergence in respect of Concepts, Features, Scope, and Implications on International Law

Abstract Autonomous weapon systems, which can identify, select, and attack targets without human intervention, share key characteristics with autonomous cyber weapons. Both pose similar challenges for defining “armed conflict” and the application of fundamental principles of international humanitarian law, such as principles of distinction and proportionality. While discussions on these systems occur on different platforms, autonomous weapon systems currently receive more focused attention. The question of whether future legal frameworks governing autonomous weapon systems also apply to autonomous cyber weapons, or vice versa, cannot be overlooked. This article explores the emerging evidence of convergence between autonomous weapon systems and autonomous cyber weapons, arguing that international society should systematically address the existing ambiguities surrounding these two types of weapons and explore the potential for their integrated regulation under international law.