What role for the EU in the quest for emerging technologies? An empirical assessment of Lethal Autonomous Weapons Systems

Emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) or lethal autonomous weapons may have a disruptive impact on national security in the years to come. While the US intends to keep its know-how in the field of AI and defence, China is becoming a fast follower by investing heavily in this technology. In this new competition, the EU is still searching for a role to play. Prior research analysing the dual-use export regime, or the European airspace drone regulation has provided that the strategic advantage of the EU resides in its regulatory power. This article considers that if the EU wants to become a leader in AI it should not be limited to be a reactive regulatory actor but is in need of being a proactive regulator in front of the fast-paced technological developments. The EU might become a new actor in the field of emerging technologies as this approach is now being echoed by the European Commission, Member States such as France and Germany and is starting to be echoed in international fora such as the UN CCW. The case of autonomous weapons sheds light on the shifting attitude of the EU: is still willing to ensure the existence of a trustworthy AI by pouring research funds but at the same time advances guidelines that evolve alongside technological developments. To answer this question, we resort to semi-structured interviews and EU official documents.