The information presented in this AIR is intended to provide designers of armed unmanned systems with guidelines that may be applied to ensure safe integration and operation of weapons on unmanned platforms. The guidelines have been developed from experiences gained in the design and operation of weapons on manned aircraft that have been accepted by relevant safety authorities in the USA and Europe and proven effective over many years. Whilst the guidelines have been developed from experience with aircraft operations, the concepts are considered equally applicable to non-aircraft systems, such as those used on the surface or undersea environments.

This document does not attempt to define or describe a comprehensive safety program for unmanned systems.

System Safety is a system characteristic and a non-functional requirement. It has to be addressed at each level of system design, system integration and during each phase of system operation. System safety is achieved when the system operation does not cause inadvertent personnel injuries, destruction of the system or damage to the environment.

Section 3

of the document contains an introduction to methods by which the safety of a system can be assessed.

Section 4

describes the safety principles commonly applied to the design and operation of weapons on manned aircraft.

Section 5

describes how the safety principles established for manned aircraft may be applied to unmanned systems,

Section 6

provides conclusions and recommendations.