Precision-guided PR for drones falls short [View all]

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http://www.atimes.com/atimes/South_Asia/NE02Df01.html

WASHINGTON - In a major address here on Monday, John Brennan, the United States official in charge of counter-terrorism, formally admitted that the US engages in attacks using armed unmanned aerial vehicles, commonly referred to as "drones".

But, Brennan argued, the drones program is "legal", "ethical" and "wise".

The speech, at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars, marks the first official public discussion of the US's highly secretive drones program. Overseen by the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the program has been stepped up significantly under President Barack Obama.

Brennan's presentation comes amid a barrage of events marking the one-year anniversary of the death of al-Qaeda leader Osama bin Laden in Pakistan, with Obama making much of the event as the 2012 presidential campaign heats up. According to Brennan, "President Obama has instructed us to be more open with the American people about using remotely piloted aircraft."

However, that newfound openness has not included an explanation of how potential drone targets are vetted.