The Disruptive Impact of Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems Diffusion: Modern Melians and the Dawn of Robotic Warriors

Rising middle power states are engaging with emerging major military innovations, such as military AI and killer robots, which can have disruptive effects on the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific. This book explores how these states are responding to these innovations and asserts that excluding non-great power actors from the debate enables the dangerous diffusion of LAWS. It offers a detailed analysis of the resource capacities of China, the United States, Singapore, and Indonesia and demonstrates how major military innovation acts as a circuit breaker between competitor states.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 234 pages
Publication date: 31 May 2023
Publisher: Taylor & Francis Ltd

Challenging the predominant focus on great powers in the international discourse, this comprehensive book delves into the intricate dynamics of rising middle power states engaging with emerging significant military innovations. Through a rigorous data-based analysis, it sheds light on how these states are navigating the complexities of these advancements, their potential implications for stability and security in the Indo-Pacific region. The book asserts that excluding non-great power actors from our understanding of these military developments can lead to the dangerous proliferation of Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems (LAWS) to smaller states and terrorist groups. Moreover, it highlights the disruptive effects of these military innovations on the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.

In order to provide a comprehensive perspective, the book offers a detailed analysis of the resource capacities of China, the United States, Singapore, and Indonesia, four key middle power actors in the Indo-Pacific. By examining their military capabilities, technological advancements, and strategic objectives, the book demonstrates how major military innovation acts as a circuit breaker between competitor states, disrupting the conventional superiority of the dominant hegemonic state. It highlights how successful adopters of these innovations can gain a distinct advantage over their opponents.

This book appeals to a wide range of audiences, including researchers, end-users in the military and law enforcement communities, as well as policymakers. It serves as a valuable resource for scholars interested in strategic stability for the broader Asia-Pacific region, as well as the role of middle power states in hegemonic power transition and conflict. By examining the complex interplay between great powers, middle power states, and emerging military innovations, this book offers insightful perspectives and valuable insights into the future of international relations and security.

Weight: 460g
Dimension: 234 x 156 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781032001555