Formosa Journal of Science and Technology (FJST)
Vol. 5 No. 7 (2026): July 2026

A Systematic Literature Review on the Advancement of Modern Weapon Systems: From Precision Guided Munitions to Autonomous Lethal Systems

Khairunissa Ulfitri (Republic of Indonesia Defense University)
Yayat Ruyat (Republic of Indonesia Defense University)



Article Info

Publish Date
31 Jul 2026

Abstract

The evolution of modern weapon systems has significantly transformed contemporary warfare, particularly through the transition from precision-guided munitions (PGMs) to autonomous lethal systems enabled by artificial intelligence (AI). This systematic literature review (SLR) synthesizes peer-reviewed studies to examine technological development, operational effectiveness, and ethical-legal implications of modern weapon systems. Following PRISMA guidelines, 78 eligible studies were analyzed from leading scientific databases including Scopus, IEEE Xplore, and Web of Science. The findings indicate that PGMs have enhanced strike accuracy and reduced collateral damage, while autonomous weapon systems introduce new complexities regarding decision-making, accountability, and compliance with International Humanitarian Law (IHL). The review highlights an accelerating trajectory toward autonomy in warfare, raising critical concerns regarding human oversight and machine-based lethal decision authority

Copyrights © 2026






Journal Info

Abbrev

fjst

Publisher

Subject

Humanities Computer Science & IT Education Industrial & Manufacturing Engineering Social Sciences

Description

Formosa Journal of Science and Technology (FJST) is an open-access scientific journal that publishing full-length research papers and review articles covering subjects that fall under the wide spectrum of science and technology. FJST journal is dedicated towards dissemination of knowledge related to ...