Lethal autonomous weapons, also known as “Killer Robots,” were designed with high-tech artificial intelligence to kill targets. In the military, they're known as slaughter bots. These robots attack specific targets without human intervention. Killer robots are permitted to annihilate a target without a command from humans. However, the choice of automation doesn't apply to just drones but battle tanks or warships. Any weapon of destruction without human control is regarded as a killer robot.

It's commonly misinterpreted that killer robots are the same as armed drones. The difference between the two is humanized control. For an armed drone, the targets are selected by human intervention. They're entirely under human control. Though killer robots are yet to suffice, precursors are in usage. These precursors are already predisposing the lethal weapons to gain autonomy.

Characteristics of some of these precursors attack targets based on facial recognition. The technology behind this is progressively growing. Countries like South Korea, Russia, Israel, the United States, and the United Kingdom produce these weapons. They foresee a future where these robots can be beneficial for humans. However, this information was received with mixed feelings across citizens and regulatory bodies.

Some citizens globally are revolting over the introduction of killer robots. They're campaigning its use against humans. The primary concern is why some wired machines should choose between the life and death of a human being?

There are also ethical issues rising against its use:

·        The killer robots may likely not conform to the International Human rights law.

·        Who will take accountability if these robots pose mayhem?

·        What if they form a colony and try to take over humans?

These questions have been raised since these robots wouldn't be under human control. It's vital to add that these machines can create a dichotomy in resolving political issues intellectually. In other words, using them would completely ostracize room for a political settlement. And can threaten international peace across borders. While a lot of debates have sparked concerning this issue, some support the full use of killer robots. The verdict is always at a dead end!

The United Nation's Consideration

After much consideration in the Convention on Certain Conventional Weapons, the meeting ended at crossroads. Several countries belonging to the UN objected to including killer robots in warfare. Although countries developing them have explained that specific AIs will be adapted to prevent mass destruction, the robots will be helpful in areas where terrorists have dominated. Recently, a drone in Turkey was launched. What amazed everyone was how affordable the drone was priced. Researchers think if the price is affordable, then everyone would own a killer robot. More so, criminals and terrorists might use them to their advantage.

Asides from protection and better structure during warfare, the UN sees no other reason this machine should be allowed to run. Hopefully, with further advancement, it may see the light of day. Yes, the killer robot is possible for some reasons, but it has likely adverse effects!

References:

·        HRW.org

·        TheConversation.com