The New Race

Abstract

Chapter 8 suggests that drones will amplify the competition for power and influence between states in conflict zones and produce new risks of deterrence breakdown and crisis escalation. It shows how states are already using drone technology to test the nerves and strategic commitments of their rivals, as well as to conduct surveillance that would otherwise been seen as too risky in crisis zones. This is because drones have changed risk calculations; what was once too dangerous with a manned aircraft is now possible with a drone. These strategic gambits are possible because of their low financial and human costs, as well as the illusion that drones can be used without the risk of escalation. As drones are now being used in more conflict zones around the world, they will begin to quietly reorder the risk calculations behind deterrence and coercion and produce greater chances of miscalculation, error, and accident.