Killer Robots: Progress or Pandora’s Box?

Killer Robots: Progress or Pandora’s Box?
👋 Hi, I am Mark. I am a strategic futurist and innovation keynote speaker. I advise governments and enterprises on emerging technologies such as AI or the metaverse. My subscribers receive a free weekly newsletter on cutting-edge technology.

What happens when machines gain the power to decide life and death? The future of warfare is knocking, and it sounds like a drone.

The rise of autonomous weapons systems, like Fortem Technologies’ DroneHunter, marks a pivotal moment in military technology. These semi-autonomous drones detect and neutralize airborne threats using AI, with a human operator remaining "in the loop."

However, as global conflicts intensify, the push for fully autonomous weapons grows. While advocates argue these technologies could save soldiers' lives and reduce casualties, critics highlight risks such as escalation from algorithmic errors or misuse by rogue actors.

  • U.S. programs like Replicator aim to mass-deploy uncrewed systems by 2025.
  • Advocacy groups push for treaties regulating autonomous weapons, citing ethical and accountability concerns.
  • Current AI limitations risk misidentifying targets, exacerbating civilian casualties.

This technological race forces us to ask: Can machines handle the moral weight of warfare, or are we automating the next arms race? Should machines ever hold the power of life and death? Share your thoughts below.

Read the full article on Undark.

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Dr Mark van Rijmenam

Dr Mark van Rijmenam

Dr. Mark van Rijmenam, widely known as The Digital Speaker, isn’t just a #1-ranked global futurist; he’s an Architect of Tomorrow who fuses visionary ideas with real-world ROI. As a global keynote speaker, Global Speaking Fellow, recognized Global Guru Futurist, and 5-time author, he ignites Fortune 500 leaders and governments worldwide to harness emerging tech for tangible growth.

Recognized by Salesforce as one of 16 must-know AI influencers , Dr. Mark brings a balanced, optimistic-dystopian edge to his insights—pushing boundaries without losing sight of ethical innovation. From pioneering the use of a digital twin to spearheading his next-gen media platform Futurwise, he doesn’t just talk about AI and the future—he lives it, inspiring audiences to take bold action. You can reach his digital twin via WhatsApp at: +1 (830) 463-6967.

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