Autonomous Weapons Systems in warfare: Is Meaningful Human Control enough?

Artificial Intelligence (AI) systems are being increasingly used in military applications, a practice that has benefits and risks. This article analyses the use of AI in warfare from legal, political, technological, and operational perspectives. The objective is to consider whether the principle of Meaningful Human Control (MHC) can address the main challenges of deploying Autonomous Weapons Systems (AWS). Initially, the concept of AWS and the current state of the technology is analysed. Later, different types of human oversight are evaluated. Finally, the chapter explores opportunities and challenges of the use of AWS and discusses whether MHC is sufficient to address the main issues. Such overview helps to better comprehend the multi-dimensional impacts AI can cause on the way wars are waged and understood. Critically evaluating the principle of MHC against the main risks is relevant for steering the debates regarding the international regulation of AWS.