ABSTRACT
A key trigger of conflict between major powers, and a common determinant of their outcome, is the adoption of paradigm-shifting military innovations. A shift in the paradigm of warfare and power projection creates an opportunity for a challenger state to disrupt the international system, by using dominance over the emerging technology or capability to compensate for a comparative lack of conventional military power. The presence of such a disruptive weapon system in the armouries of minor, rising regional powers will raise the security dilemma of neighbouring states and make multiple regional conflicts more likely. This will contribute to increased intra-regional conflict and instability in a region of vital geopolitical importance to the global economy and security. Within the emerging body of literature that examines the proliferation of unmanned combat aircraft, there is also a clear focus on major powers. The chapter also presents an overview on the key concepts discussed in this book.
