Uncrewed systems – which include uncrewed aerial, ground and maritime systems – are increasingly being developed and used by a range of actors both within and outside situations of armed conflict. Uncrewed aerial systems (UAS, commonly known as drones) are viewed with particular concern as regards the implications of the growing proliferation and use to international peace and security.
Between 2 July and 5 September 2024, UNIDIR and the United Nations Office for Disarmament Affairs co-organized a series of three webinars on UAS. This summary highlights the key points made by the speakers on issues pertaining to terms and classifications of UAS, benefits and risks of (mis)use, and possible actions to address the identified threats.
Citation: Sarah Grand-Clément, “Armed and dangerous? A brief overview of uncrewed aerial systems: risks, impacts, and avenues for action”, UNIDIR, Geneva, 2024.