By Sri Lanka Joins the Fight Against Killer Robots: Calls for a Global Ban on AI Weapons
A Bold Stand on Autonomous Weapons
Sri Lanka has taken a firm stance against autonomous weapons powered by artificial intelligence (AI), joining international efforts to ban these systems. Foreign Minister Vijitha Herath made this announcement at the United Nations Conference on Disarmament, emphasizing the urgent need for global regulations.
The Rise of AI Weapons and the Global Debate
AI-powered weapon systems, often called killer robots, can identify, select, and attack targets without human intervention. These include:
Autonomous drones capable of carrying out strikes without direct human control.
Robotic tanks that engage enemies based on AI-driven algorithms.
AI-powered missile systems designed for precision targeting.
While these advancements promise enhanced military efficiency, they also raise ethical, legal, and security concerns. The fear is that machines could decide who lives or dies without human judgment, violating International Humanitarian Law (IHL).
Sentry Robots and Drones
Example: “CT-2” and “CT-3” Sentry Guns (South Korea)
These are automated sentry systems used in South Korea along the Korean Demilitarized Zone (DMZ). The system is capable of detecting and targeting intruders with cameras and automated weapons, though they still require human oversight to fire.
The Sentry CT system can detect targets, track them, and can fire without direct human intervention, although human approval is needed for lethal action.
2. Autonomous Combat Drones
Example: “MQ-9 Reaper” (USA)
While the MQ-9 Reaper is still remotely piloted by humans, there has been experimentation with integrating autonomy into drones. These drones can conduct surveillance and even launch strikes autonomously based on pre-set criteria or targeting systems.
Example: “Kargu-2” (Turkey)
The Kargu-2 is a drone used by Turkey’s military. It has demonstrated the ability to operate autonomously in targeted strikes. In 2020, reports suggested that the Kargu-2 was used in combat in Libya and operated autonomously to hunt down and engage targets.
3. Autonomous Ground Vehicles (AGVs)
Example: “MAARS” (USA)
The Modular Advanced Armed Robotic System (MAARS) is an autonomous ground vehicle developed by the U.S. military. It can patrol an area, detect potential threats, and potentially engage targets autonomously or semi-autonomously. While MAARS can be operated remotely, it also has autonomous capabilities.
4. Sea-Based Autonomous Weapons
Example: “Sea Hunter” (USA)
The Sea Hunter is an autonomous, unmanned surface vehicle (USV) developed by DARPA for naval warfare. While it’s primarily used for surveillance and reconnaissance, it has the potential to be integrated with autonomous targeting and defense systems in the future.
Example: “Ghost Shark” (UK)
A prototype autonomous submarine developed by the UK Ministry of Defence, designed for covert underwater reconnaissance and combat missions. While it’s not yet armed, it may eventually be integrated into autonomous naval warfare systems.
5. AI-Driven Targeting Systems
Example: “Project Maven” (USA)
Project Maven is a U.S. Department of Defense initiative aimed at incorporating artificial intelligence into military systems, particularly to analyze video footage collected by drones. While not directly an autonomous weapon, it paves the way for autonomous targeting and decision-making systems in combat.
Why Sri Lanka Supports a Ban
Minister Herath highlighted the dangers posed by AI in warfare, stating that rapid technological developments are outpacing international regulations. He reaffirmed Sri Lanka’s commitment to maintaining world peace by advocating for:
A legally binding treaty to prohibit Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems (LAWS).
Stronger global oversight to ensure AI does not replace human decision-making in warfare.
Preserving International Humanitarian Law as a cornerstone of global security.
Sri Lanka was also a key sponsor of the first-ever UN General Assembly resolution on LAWS in 2023, signaling its strong diplomatic push against AI weapons.
The Growing Arms Race: Challenges to a Ban
Despite increasing calls for regulation, powerful nations like the US, China, and Russia remain resistant to an outright ban. Their reasoning includes:
National Security Concerns – They argue that banning AI weapons could leave them vulnerable while rivals continue development.
AI’s Dual-Use Nature – AI is used not just for offense but also for defensive military technology, such as missile interception.
Economic and Military Competition – The global arms race means no country wants to fall behind in technological warfare.
Beyond AI Weapons: Sri Lanka’s Concerns Over Space Militarization
Minister Herath also warned about the growing threats in outer space, where the line between commercial and military activities is becoming blurred. Sri Lanka remains committed to preventing an arms race in space and supports efforts for legally binding international agreements.
The Path Forward: Ban or Regulation?
While an outright ban on AI weapons may be difficult to enforce, many experts suggest a more pragmatic approach:
Banning fully autonomous AI weapons but allowing AI-assisted systems with human oversight.
International agreements requiring human approval before AI systems launch attacks.
Transparency measures where countries disclose their AI weapon developments to prevent secret arms races.
A Crucial Moment for Global Security
Sri Lanka’s strong stance places it among the leading voices for AI disarmament. As the world grapples with the ethical and security challenges of killer robots, the question remains—should AI weapons be completely banned, or simply controlled?
The answer may determine the future of war and peace in the AI era.
