The U.S. is set to reinterpret the 1987 Missile Technology Control Regime to facilitate the sale of advanced military drones, like the MQ-9, to allies including Saudi Arabia, potentially enhancing its competitive edge against countries like China and Turkey. By classifying drones as aircraft rather than missile systems, the U.S. aims to simplify sales and increase its presence in the global drone market. This shift raises concerns among human rights advocates about the potential for increased violence in regions such as the Middle East and South Asia. While the U.S. government will still vet sales based on regional stability and human rights, the move underscores the geopolitical significance of drone technology in modern warfare.