It’s arguably been one of the most successful tools employed by the United States in the fight against global terrorism, but the use of armed drones is not without controversy.
When the U.S. announced it would begin allowing the sale of lethal drones to some friendly and allied countries, largely in the Middle East, the decision was met with mixed reaction. China is already exporting drones to at least nine countries, including Pakistan, Egypt, and the United Arab Emirates, and is looking for other international buyers.
With some strong lobbying from the vast American military-industrial complex, marketplace competition is also playing a role. CCTV America’s Jim Spellman reported this story from Washington, D.C.
The Heat discussed the U.S. decision to export lethal drones to some allies in the Middle East and beyond with three experts:
- Richard Whittle, the journalist and author of “Predator: The Secret Origins of the Drone Revolution.”
- Talib Hussain Warsi, co-director of the Association of British Muslims.
- Daveed Gartenstein-Ross, a senior fellow with the Foundation for Defense of Democracies.
The discussion continued.