EVENT ADVISORY: Lethal Autonomy: The Future of Warfare Whether We Like It or Not

Washington, D.C. — New advancements in artificial intelligence and automation are rapidly changing the nature of warfare. These changes are not theoretical; on the battlefield in Ukraine and in the Strait of Hormuz, autonomous weapons are already defining the conflicts of the 21st century. In his new book, Lethal Autonomy: The Future of Warfare Whether We Like It or Not , Frank Kendall, former secretary of the Air Force and a senior fellow at the Center for American Progress, explores how transformative technologies are changing warfare today and in the future. Beginning with a description of the attributes that have characterized advances in military technology and affected operational concepts and organizations, Kendall assesses each traditional military domain—land, sea surface, sea subsurface, and air—as well as space, cyberspace, and multidomain operations. He provides a detailed description of the concepts, building blocks, and complexities that must be considered in designing forces incorporating lethal autonomy. Please join CAP for an exclusive prerelease conversation with Kendall during a moderated conversation that will include audience questions. He will also be available to sign purchased copies of his book following the event. WHO: Welcoming remarks: Allison McManus , Managing Director of National Security and International Policy, Center for American Progress Speaker: Frank Kendall , Former Secretary of the Air Force; Senior Fellow, Center for American Progress Moderator : Damian Murphy , Senior Vice President of National Security and International Policy, Center for American Progress WHEN: Thursday, June 25, 2026 11:00 a.m. – 12:00 p.m. ET WHERE: Center for American Progress 1333 H St NW Washington, D.C. 20005 and online via Zoom RSVP: RSVP at the following link to watch the event in person or online . For more information or to speak to an expert , please contact Sam Hananel at [email protected] .