Artificial Intelligence and Legitimate Authority in Modern Warfare

Reinterpreting Just War Theory in Light of the War in Ukraine

Abstract

This paper examines the reinterpretation of the right authority principle of just war theory in the context of artificial intelligence-based warfare. The main research question is how the emergence of AI and autonomous weapon systems changes the practical application of the principle of right authority, with a particular focus on the requirements of accountability and transparency. Through case studies of the war in Ukraine, the paper analyses the “black box” problem and the “human in the loop” principle in practice. The paper argues that although AI-based systems weaken the traditional understanding of right authority, this does not necessarily mean that the principle is invalid. The paper concludes that the reinterpretation of the principle raises not only technological and legal, but also fundamental ethical questions that require further investigation.