The Utility of Weapons Reviews in Addressing Concerns Raised by Autonomous Weapon Systems

Abstract The obligation to legally review weapons, means and methods of warfare has been identified by the Group Governmental Experts on Emerging Technologies in Area Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems as one its Guiding Principles. Despite calls share practical measures processes undertake this review, national practice remains opaque fragmented. This article describes traditional weapons process explains why may need be modified adequately evaluate autonomous weapon systems (AWS). It uses three case studies fictional AWS various stages development acquisition demonstrate how existing can adapted for AWS. shows utility these reviews ensuring compliance with legal requirements, thereby also demonstrating suitability law regulate use novel technology warfare.