US Mulls Plan to Export Military Drones

July 17, 2014 in Video by RBN Staff

The State Department’s Principal Deputy Assistant Secretary for Global Strategic Affairs, Kenneth Handelman, hinted this week that the U.S. might soon loosen its restrictions on exporting militarized drones to allies. Speaking at an international airshow, Handelman told the audience to stay tuned. A 1987 agreement known as the Missile Technology Control Regime, which was signed by 34 nations, prevents the spread of unmanned systems that have the capability of carrying weapons of mass destruction. But, with dozens of countries pursuing this type of technology, it’s only a matter of time before one of them succeeds. Proponents say the relaxed restrictions will boost competition and stimulate the economy. Opponents are worried about civilian casualties or the scenario of these weapons ending up in the wrong hands. RT Correspondent Meghan Lopez reports from the State Department about these developments.