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Revolution in Military Affairs

James Patton Rogers on Drone and Precision Warfare

Jan 20, 2025
In this engaging discussion, James Patton Rogers, Executive Director of the Cornell Brooks Tech Policy Institute, shares his expertise on drone warfare and disruptive technologies. He explores the evolution of drone technology, its ethical implications, and the historical transition from precision bombing. Rogers highlights the challenge of balancing military effectiveness with civilian safety and discusses the alarming proliferation of drones among various actors. Additionally, he delves into the future of autonomous weapons and the urgent need for adaptive military strategies.
51:53

Podcast summary created with Snipd AI

Quick takeaways

  • Dr. James Rogers emphasizes the historical roots of drone technology, highlighting its evolution from World War I aimed at minimizing casualties.
  • The proliferation of drones has significantly altered global military dynamics, raising concerns over the accessibility of advanced weaponry to non-state actors.

Deep dives

Exploring Drone Warfare's Historical Context

The discussion highlights the evolution of drone technology, tracing its roots back to the First World War, where the desire to avoid high casualties led to the development of remote-controlled weapons. Early American air power thinkers envisioned drones to conduct precise strikes while minimizing civilian harm, stemming from the horrors experienced in previous conflicts. This historical perspective sheds light on the moral and ethical dilemmas that have persisted throughout warfare, as nations sought advanced technologies to engage in combat while reducing the costs associated with human lives. By understanding this lineage, it becomes clear how foundational ideologies of precision and remote warfare shaped contemporary military strategies.

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