Robots in the Sky-The Legal Effects and Impacts of UAV on the Operational Commander

Abstract : Recent advances in surveillance and targeting technology have made unmanned aerial vehicle the weapon of choice for operational commanders. With this developing technology has evolved a whole host of new legal issues that operational commanders must now be familiar with. This paper discusses the issues involving the operational commander's legal responsibilities as they pertain to command, contractors, and the global nature of UAV operations. Realizing the legal implications involved in UAV employment, operational commanders will be able to ensure that the law of armed conflict issues involving UAVs are properly implemented in the design of operational plans.