In April, Ukrainian President Volodymr Zelensky claimed that Ukrainian-made robots and drones carried out what’s thought to be a world first – an enemy position was captured entirely by ground robotic systems and drones – without any human soldiers.
The claim marks a turning point in modern warfare with robots potentially replacing people on the battlefield. In Iran too, the use of AI and semi-autonomous drones has been a significant development. Weapons makers say the trend saves the lives of soldiers, but what does it mean for civilians and for safety when killing is done by robots.