The killing machines taking over men in Ukraine
The war in Europe is posing fresh ethical challenges for arms control.
Sign up now: Get ST's newsletters delivered to your inbox
A satellite image showing an overview of the Sevastopol power substation after Ukrainian drones knocked out power in the biggest city in Russian-held Crimea on June 24.
PHOTO: REUTERS
Cory Alpert
In June, Ukraine reportedly struck many targets in Mariupol connecting Russia to Crimea, using autonomous Hornet drones. These fully artificial intelligence-powered drones were programmed to lock on to targets, strike with precision, and cut off critical supply routes – all without human intervention.
Military planners facing a manpower crunch see a breakthrough being birthed. Defence planners, however, should awaken to this fresh warning.

