The Drone Disruption: How Autonomous Systems Are Reshaping the Battlefield with Dawn Zoldi

What happens when weapons that cost a few thousand dollars can rival—and even outmaneuver—systems worth millions? This week, Elisa is joined by Dawn Zoldi, a retired Air Force Colonel, attorney, and founder of P3 Tech Consulting, to break down the rapid rise of drone warfare and its growing impact on global conflict. Drawing on examples from Ukraine, Iran, and across the Middle East, they explore how inexpensive drones are transforming military strategy, how AI is reshaping their capabilities, and what it means for those operating far from the battlefield. From swarm technology to legal accountability, the conversation also looks ahead—examining how autonomous drone systems could reshape private sector and industrial roles, taking on tasks once considered too dangerous, costly, or complex for humans. Dawn Zoldi is a retired Air Force Colonel, licensed attorney, CEO & Founder of P3 Tech Consulting, Publisher of Autonomy Global and an internationally recognized expert on uncrewed aircraft system law and policy.Autonomy Global is the leading digital media platform providing cutting-edge insights on autonomous technologies, featuring the latest news, industry trends, policies and expert analysis on dual-use drones, eVTOLs, robotics, space, maritime and enabling technologies worldwide.References:Tune in to the Dawn of Autonomy PodcastSubscribe to the Autonomy Global NewsletterArticle: Zoldi, Dawn. “Burning Down the Miracles: Inside Skunk Works’ Next Long-Range Kill Chain Breakthroughs.” Autonomy Global, 26 Feb. 2026NSLT Ep. 123, "Drones in the Pandemic with Dawn Zoldi". May 7 2020.U.S. Department of War Statement on DJI SystemsThe Law of Armed Conflict OverviewThe Rules of Engagement (ROE) OverviewXPONENTIAL 2026 – May 11th-14th in Detroit, MI