IGF 2023 Town Hall #1 Securing Connected Unmanned Systems

The emergence of unmanned aerial and ground vehicles (UAVs, USV, ASV, and UGVs) has revolutionized many industries, including military and defense. These unmanned systems have provided significant advantages in terms of surveillance, reconnaissance, and target acquisition. However, as the use of these unmanned systems increases and they become more connected to the internet and satellite systems, they pose a significant threat to national security.

The use of unmanned systems in warfare has become more prevalent in recent years, and their increasing connectivity has made them more vulnerable to cyberattacks. For instance, UAVs and UGVs can be hacked, and their payloads can be intercepted, causing significant damage to infrastructure and endangering lives.

To address these emerging challenges, it is essential for international governments to work together and develop appropriate regulatory frameworks to mitigate the risks posed by unmanned systems. The regulatory frameworks should be developed to cover areas such as data protection, privacy, cybersecurity, and electronic warfare.

In addition, the development of international standards and guidelines for the use of unmanned systems can help to ensure their safe and responsible operation. International cooperation in this area will be critical in ensuring that unmanned systems are used in a manner that is consistent with the principles of human rights, ethical considerations, and international law.

The opportunities in regulating unmanned systems are vast. The development of regulatory frameworks and standards for the safe and responsible use of unmanned systems can promote innovation and growth in the industry. Additionally, the regulation of unmanned systems can help to prevent their use in illegal activities, such as espionage, terrorism, and other criminal activities.

In conclusion, the increasing use of unmanned systems connected to the internet and satellite systems poses significant challenges to international security. To address these challenges, it is essential for governments to work together and develop appropriate regulatory frameworks to mitigate the risks posed by unmanned systems. With the proper regulations in place, unmanned systems can be used in a safe and responsible manner, promoting innovation and growth in the industry while preventing their use in illegal activities.

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