Ikari:“If it couldn't, it wouldn't be capable as an autonomous weapon.”
Woman (OFF):“Report Balthazar's analysis results as quickly as possible. This is the highest priority.”
Sharp-kun: I find Gendo's line here interesting. The term “weapon” seems to imply that someone built and sent Sachiel.
Reichu: The term heiki(“weapon”) is used to refer to the Evangelions, as well — but we know that they were created partially for battle purposes and could thus be considered “weapons” despite being sentient entities. The Angels are a different story, though. “Autonomous” — yes. But “weapons”?
Sephizim: Gendo probably uses "weapon" to refer to the fact that the Angels really are a tool for mankind's destruction. They really don't serve much of a purpose beyond that, or at least not as far as he's concerned.