Autonomous weapon systems as the weapon of the future represent the central issue of this paper, which begins with clarifying the terms necessary for the elaboration of the topic, such as international humanitarian law, or the law of war. The historical development of this branch of law is also analyzed, as well as the restrictions on the use of weapons that can be employed during war. The paper proceeds to explain the concept of autonomous weapon systems, the similarities and differences with drones, as well as their developmental history. The compliance of these weapon systems with the principles of international humanitarian law is examined, and questions are raised that directly relate to international humanitarian law, as well as those outside this category, such as the moral question of whether it is justifiable for autonomous weapons to take human lives. Additionally, the paper addresses the issue of responsibility for the behavior of autonomous weapon systems, their potentially negative impact on human rights, and, finally, the question of their current and future control. The paper concludes by stating that although autonomous weapons have their advantages, due to their characteristics, they cannot yet replace human soldiers.