by Bagus Jatmiko and Indonesian Naval Command and Staff College
Abstract: AI-enabled autonomous weapons promise operational precision but introduce systemic risks — algorithmic bias, black-box opacity, reduced human control, and value misalignment (including sycophantic tendencies) — that undermine jus in bello principles of distinction, proportionality, and precaution. In Southeast Asia, these flaws risk escalating conflict and causing disproportionate harm
across its diverse, densely populated maritime domain, while Great-Power AI dominance constrains Middle-Power agency. Using a qualitative, legal-normative approach, this paper argues that without binding international norms, AI’s inherent flaws will erode IHL compliance. Urgent multilateral action through CCW protocols and the REAIM framework, supported by ASEAN-led regional governance, is essential.
Keywords: Autonomous Systems, Biased AI, IHL Compliance, Jus in Bello, CCW Protocols, REAIM Framework, ASEAN Perspective
