YEREVAN, Armenia — On September 22, the American University of Armenia (AUA) hosted a Faculty Research Series event examining the growing role of drones in contemporary warfare and whether their widespread use in the Russo-Ukrainian conflict represents a fundamental transformation in the conduct of war. The event was organized by the Master of Arts in International Relations and Diplomacy (MAIRD) program and the Turpanjian Institute of Social Sciences within AUA’s College of Humanities and Social Sciences.
The presentation, titled “Drones and the Revolution of Warfare?” was delivered by Dr. Jean-François Caron, associate professor and program chair of AUA’s MAIRD and MPA programs.
The discussion focused on the rapid expansion of drone warfare and the tactical consequences of the extensive use of relatively low-cost unmanned systems by both Russia and Ukraine. The Russo-Ukrainian conflict has provided an important context for examining how drones are being integrated into military operations and how their deployment is affecting conventional approaches to warfare.
Dr. Caron examined whether the growing importance of drones signals a broader revolution in military affairs. The talk considered the extent to which inexpensive and increasingly capable unmanned systems can challenge traditional assumptions about military equipment, battlefield operations, and strategic planning.
Particular attention was given to the implications of drone warfare for conventional military platforms. The widespread deployment of drones has raised questions about the vulnerability and future role of major pieces of military equipment, including tanks and naval vessels. These developments have prompted broader discussions about whether militaries should reconsider existing strategies and approaches to force structure and warfare.
At the same time, the presentation approached the idea of a “revolution of warfare” with caution, highlighting the need to distinguish between significant technological and tactical changes and a fundamental transformation of warfare itself. The discussion invited participants to consider whether the lessons emerging from the Russo-Ukrainian conflict can be generalized to other conflicts and military environments.
The event provided students, faculty, and participants with an opportunity to engage with broader questions concerning technological innovation, military strategy, and the future of armed conflict. It also highlighted the importance of critically examining emerging technologies before drawing definitive conclusions about their long-term impact on warfare.
Founded in 1991, the American University of Armenia (AUA) is a private, independent university located in Yerevan, Armenia, affiliated with the University of California, and accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC). AUA provides local and international students with Western-style education through top-quality undergraduate and graduate degree and certificate programs, promotes research and innovation, encourages civic engagement and community service, and fosters democratic values.
