The second edition of What Everyone Needs to Know® provides a comprehensive and updated look at the rapidly evolving world of drones, otherwise known as unmanned or uncrewed aerial vehicles (UAVs). Covering the past, present, and future of military and civilian applications, this book explores how drones have transformed--and are transforming--industries and warfare. It delves into the ethical, legal, and safety concerns raised by their widespread use, examining issues from privacy violations to international security.

While the US has historically been a dominant force in drone development, this fully updated volume addresses the global proliferation of drones. They quickly became one of the most effective weapons in the Russia-Ukraine War, and states like China, Iran, and Turkey are now supplying drones to states and violent non-state actors around the world. This book discusses the dramatic rise of commercial drones, from deliveries to emergency response, while analyzing the challenges of regulation and public perception. Drones also expands beyond the air to cover ground and maritime drones, and projects the future of drone technology across multiple domains with a focus on autonomous vehicles and lethal autonomous weapons. A must-read for anyone seeking a well-rounded understanding of this pivotal technology, What Everyone Needs to Know® provides crucial insights into how UAVs are reshaping modern warfare, domestic security, and civilian life.