Autonomous weapon systems and meaningful human control

Abstract Autonomous weapon systems (AWS) are gradually becoming incorporated into warfare with technological advancement and increased capabilities. This paper explores the meaningful human control principle in AWS. It identifies the legal standard for meaningful human control and how informed conduct is operationalized in targeting. The paper provides a working definition of meaningful human control, analysis of various definition, meaningful human control requirements, ethical implications, military benefits, and compliance under IHL. The author argues that informed conduct is required to achieve meaningful human control through deliberate and dynamic targeting. The requirements should be included under review process and training for AWS operators. Finally, it suggests elements needed for establishing meaningful human control.