1 - Introduction

Summary

The introductory chapter establishes the context of the discussion and introduces the reader to the requirement placed on States by Article 36 to review the legality of a new weapon, means or method of warfare. With significant funding flowing worldwide into the development of autonomous weapons systems and cyber capabilities, including capabilities underpinned by Artificial Intelligence, the chapter further explains the focus of this book on both types of technology. Being software driven, autonomous weapons systems and cyber capabilities pose a similar set of challenges for ‘traditional’ Article 36 review mechanisms, offering a valuable case study to examine where such mechanisms may need to be adapted in light of contemporary circumstances. The chapter concludes by illuminating doctrinal and empirical sources on which the analysis in the book is based. [129 words]