This chapter examines the complex implications of drone technology deployment in African battlespaces, underscoring its dual-use character that simultaneously facilitates humanitarian efforts and exacerbates security threats posed by state and non-state actors. It emphasizes the critical role drones play in reshaping geopolitical dynamics, creating new forms of asymmetry, and generating distinct ethical, legal, and socio-political challenges specific to Africa. Moving beyond conventional military analyses predominantly centred on Western contexts, this contribution highlights the unique African operational realities, stressing the urgent need for tailored ethical guidelines and comprehensive regulatory frameworks. The chapter proposes actionable policy recommendations, including developing indigenous drone capabilities, establishing robust regulatory environments, promoting ethical accountability in drone warfare, fostering regional cooperation, reducing dependency through diversified partnerships, enhancing cybersecurity and counter-drone capabilities, and expanding civilian drone applications. Ultimately, this chapter aims to inform policymakers and stakeholders, advocating for African-led international dialogue and sustainable governance of drone technologies within the continent’s diverse security landscape.

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Researching Drones in African Battlespaces: Broader Implications and Policy Recommendations

  • Wayne Stephen Coetzee,
  • Dries Putter

摘要

This chapter examines the complex implications of drone technology deployment in African battlespaces, underscoring its dual-use character that simultaneously facilitates humanitarian efforts and exacerbates security threats posed by state and non-state actors. It emphasizes the critical role drones play in reshaping geopolitical dynamics, creating new forms of asymmetry, and generating distinct ethical, legal, and socio-political challenges specific to Africa. Moving beyond conventional military analyses predominantly centred on Western contexts, this contribution highlights the unique African operational realities, stressing the urgent need for tailored ethical guidelines and comprehensive regulatory frameworks. The chapter proposes actionable policy recommendations, including developing indigenous drone capabilities, establishing robust regulatory environments, promoting ethical accountability in drone warfare, fostering regional cooperation, reducing dependency through diversified partnerships, enhancing cybersecurity and counter-drone capabilities, and expanding civilian drone applications. Ultimately, this chapter aims to inform policymakers and stakeholders, advocating for African-led international dialogue and sustainable governance of drone technologies within the continent’s diverse security landscape.