As the role of technology within warfare continues to increase, it is important to investigate whether
or not the consequences of these weapons are being adequately considered. The use of new weapons
technologies, such as Unmanned Combat Aerial Vehicles and Precision Guided Munitions, have been
both praised and condemned within the war in Afghanistan. Although praised as saving civilian lives
due to the precision capabilities of the weaponry there are consistent civilian deaths attributed to these
weapons systems. This study examines debates regarding new weapons technologies that have been
utilised during the war in Afghanistan. Current literature regarding emerging weapons technology is
examined in order to identify key debates. The literature was recognised as falling predominantly
within three perspectives - strategy, law and ethics. By identifying the key debates within each
perspective it is possible to identify where these debates overlap or diverge. This research concludes
that the introduction of counterinsurgency strategy to modern warfare has led to an increasing concern
with the ethical and legal dimensions of the debate surrounding new weapons technology.
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