In this edition of the AIMI International Military Alerts, we show how the United States military continues to integrate AI into its operations across multiple branches. The Army introduced initiatives like #BreakAI and #CounterAI in their 500-day AI plan and tested AI-driven technologies in real-world scenarios with the Multi-Functional Reconnaissance Company. The Air Force is advancing AI-enabled counterintelligence capabilities, while the Navy is exploring AI for electronic warfare and surveillance. The Marine Corps is seeking AI sensors to enhance surveillance in advanced operations, showing a broad commitment across services to enhancing military capabilities with AI.
In the U.S. industry sector, Google DeepMind employees voiced concerns over military contracts, reflecting ethical tensions in AI development. Shield AI demonstrated collaborative multi-jet aircraft autonomy, while Defcon AI secured significant funding to improve military logistics using AI. The commentary section highlights the growing debate around AI governance, with discussions on the role of systems integrators, the challenges in the AUKUS partnership, and the strategic necessity for AI in modern warfare. The need for responsible AI use and the potential risks of accelerated development are also emphasized.
Internationally, China is grappling with internal debates on AI development, balancing rapid advancements with safety concerns. Russia has initiated a 10-year AI-focused defense plan, while Japan explores AI to offset manpower shortages in its military. In Nigeria, the U.S. discussed responsible AI use, and Australia is analyzing AI's impact on future conflicts. These developments underscore the global race to integrate AI into military strategies, with varying approaches and challenges faced by different nations.
UNITED STATES
Army
Break and counter: Army's 500-day artificial intelligence plan to include new testing, defense
Breaking Defense
August 21, 2024
The Army's technology acquisition office announced two new initiatives, #BreakAI and #CounterAI, to be included in its 500-day artificial intelligence implementation plan. #BreakAI focuses on testing AI algorithms for soldiers' use, while #CounterAI is a defensive initiative to secure platforms and capabilities from threats. The Army's initiatives highlight the importance of testing and defending against AI in military operations, showcasing the integration of cutting-edge technology in defense strategies.
West Point’s Annual Intellectual Theme for AY 2024-25
United States Military Academy
August 2024
West Point’s Academic Year 2024-25 theme is "Artificial Intelligence and the Future of War." The theme explores AI's role in shaping modern warfare, addressing the ethical, tactical, and strategic implications. The initiative includes lectures, research projects, and interdisciplinary discussions to prepare cadets for leadership in an AI-influenced military landscape. The theme aligns with West Point's mission to educate and inspire leaders of character capable of facing the challenges posed by emerging technologies in defense.
Army puts new unit loaded with cutting-edge tech to the test
Sam Skove
Defense One
August 21, 2024
The Multi-Functional Reconnaissance Company (MFRC) of the 101st Airborne Division tested new technology in real-world conditions against an experienced 'enemy' unit. The MFRC is one of just three similar units across the entire Army, tasked with developing innovative doctrine and testing cutting-edge equipment. The MFRC utilizes artificial intelligence software, such as Sentinel AI, to recommend the best angles for targeting and reducing the time it takes to destroy a target. The unit's integration of AI technology enhances its combat capabilities and effectiveness in the field.
Air Force
USAF maturing AI-enabled counterintelligence, insider threat capability
Janes
August 22, 2024
The US Air Force is collaborating with industry partners to enhance an AI- and ML-enabled counterintelligence software program aimed at identifying potential insider threats. The program, developed by Cogility Software, utilizes a continuous intelligence platform to collect and analyze psychosocial and behavioral data of personnel with access to classified information. The AI-enabled counterintelligence program leverages real-time analytics and automated processes to detect insider threats that may not be identifiable through traditional AI applications. By analyzing complex behavioral data, AI plays a crucial role in enhancing security measures within the USAF.
Navy
Navy approaches industry for electronic warfare (EW), RF surveillance, and artificial intelligence (AI)
John Keller
Military Aerospace
Aug. 21, 2024
U.S. Navy electronic warfare (EW) experts are seeking enabling technologies in EW and RF surveillance. The Office of Naval Research issued a broad agency announcement for the Enabling Technologies for Electronic Warfare and RF Surveillance project, focusing on signal processing algorithms for radars, artificial intelligence, and repairing signals after frequency-selective limiters. The Navy is looking to leverage artificial intelligence to create complex modeling and simulations for detecting and classifying RF transmissions. AI will play a crucial role in developing innovative EW and ISR applications for the Navy's current capabilities.
Marine Corps
Marines searching for AI-enabled sensors to detect and track unmanned systems, other targets
Jon Harper
DefenseScoop
August 22, 2024
The Marine Corps is seeking AI-enabled sensors for its Observation and Sensing System (OSS) program to detect, identify, and track uncrewed platforms and other targets. The program aims to integrate AI and Machine Learning to enhance surveillance capabilities for expeditionary advanced base operations. The use of AI and Machine Learning in the OSS program will enable the detection, classification, and identification of targets, enhancing security and response coordination for the Marine Corps.
Joint Forces
Strategy for a New Era: USSOCOM Takes on Strategic Competition
Lauren Hickok & Larson Miller
Inter Populum Journal
August 16, 2024
In a new era of strategic competition, U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) must identify opportunities to out-compete China and Russia when and where it is most crucial, maintaining the U.S. technical edge and strategic advantage. USSOCOM needs a foundation for strategy and policy, and approaches for achieving impact. The article discusses the importance of leveraging strategic reviews and net assessments to optimize resource allocation and achieve desired ends in the context of strategic competition, highlighting the relevance of AI in data interpretation and decision-making processes.
Industry
Exclusive: Google DeepMind Staff Push to End Military Contracts
Billy Perrigo
TIME
August 23, 2024
Nearly 200 workers at Google DeepMind signed a letter urging the company to drop its contracts with military organizations, citing concerns that its technology is being used for warfare. The letter highlights a growing dispute within Google between its AI division and Cloud business, which has contracts with governments and militaries. Despite the workers' concerns, Google has not taken any action to address the issue. The article discusses the ethical implications of using AI technology for military purposes, raising questions about the responsibility of tech companies in ensuring that their AI principles are upheld. It sheds light on the challenges faced by companies like Google in balancing business interests with ethical considerations in the development and deployment of AI technology.
Shield AI Achieves Groundbreaking Collaborative Multi-Jet Aircraft Autonomy in Kratos MQM-178 Firejet Flight Test Event
PRNewswire
August 21, 2024
Shield AI successfully demonstrated its first-ever multi-jet autonomy flights on two Kratos MQM-178 Firejets, showcasing collaborative behaviors between autonomous agents piloted by 'Hivemind' AI Pilot. The flight tests highlighted the capabilities of future unmanned jets and drones with onboard computing and seamless in-air agent communication. The achievement showcases the advancement of AI technology in piloting unmanned systems, paving the way for the deployment of intelligent and resilient drones controlled by AI pilots in the future.
Defcon AI closes $44M seed round to solve a problem of 'maximum complexity': Military logistics
TechCrunch Staff
August 20, 2024
Defcon AI, a Virginia-based startup, has raised a $44 million seed round to address the complex problem of military logistics within the U.S. Department of Defense. The company uses software to help operators plan operations, coordinate resources, and stay within budget, especially during crisis situations. Defcon AI utilizes machine learning and mathematical optimization algorithms to simulate scenarios and generate the best logistical outcomes for defense operators, showcasing the application of AI in solving complex military challenges.
Commentary
The Military Applications Of Artificial Intelligence In Space
Amir Husain
Forbes
Aug 19, 2024
The article discusses the increasing importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in military space operations, highlighting how AI is reshaping military strategy and operations. It explores various applications of AI in space, such as enhancing situational awareness, predictive maintenance, autonomous decision-making, and cybersecurity. The integration of AI into military space operations is revolutionizing how nations approach space strategy, with AI enabling advanced capabilities like predictive maintenance, autonomous decision-making, and improved operational efficiency. AI is crucial for managing vast amounts of data and providing timely intelligence crucial for successful space missions and multi-domain operations.
Rethinking the Role of a Systems Integrator for Artificial Intelligence
Jim Rebesco and Anthony Manganiello
War on the Rocks
August 20, 2024
The article discusses the need to rethink the role of systems integrators for artificial intelligence in the defense sector. It highlights the challenges of slow innovation, the importance of competition and incentives, and proposes a two-sided marketplace approach for AI inferences. The article emphasizes the importance of creating a competitive market structure for AI capabilities in the defense sector to drive innovation, reduce costs, and improve outcomes. It suggests shifting the point of competition to data points and inferences to foster competition and benefit both the Defense Department and warfighters.
AUKUS ITAR changes not much help for Pillar 2 tech: US Studies Centre experts
Breaking Defense
August 21, 2024
The reforms of the ITAR arms export system for AUKUS are not likely to help development of advanced weapons for Pillar II, according to a new report from the Australian-based US Studies Centre. The report cautiously concludes that the reforms may succeed in creating a 'defense free-trade zone' between Australia and the United States. The report highlights the challenges in implementing the ITAR reforms and how they may impact the development of advanced technologies such as AI within the AUKUS partnership.
AUKUS accelerates military application of AI
Li Hai
China Military
August 21, 2024
The US, the UK, and Australia recently tested AI-supported UAVs and autonomous combat devices in joint exercises, marking a significant step in integrating their AI defense systems. The testing aimed to improve target identification speed and decision-making for commanders, enhancing military efficiency and joint operations. The article highlights the increasing use of AI in military applications, showcasing how AI technology can improve defense systems, target identification, and decision-making processes in real-time military environments.
When it comes to military AI, there is no second place
Adm. Gary Roughead, U.S. Navy (Retired)
Military Times
Saturday, Aug 24, 2024
The article discusses the importance of artificial intelligence (AI) in shaping the future of warfare, particularly in the context of the U.S. military's competition with China. It highlights the need for the U.S. Navy and Air Force to prioritize AI modernization initiatives to maintain global dominance in the air. The article emphasizes the critical role of AI in military modernization efforts and the need for increased funding to stay ahead in the AI race. It underscores the significance of AI-powered systems like the F/A-XX and NGAD in ensuring air dominance and national security.
Technology and the Rise of Great Powers: How Diffusion Shapes Economic Competition (book)
Jeffrey Ding
Princeton University Press
August 20, 2024
In this book, Jeffrey Ding presents a novel theory on how technological revolutions influence global power dynamics. Instead of focusing solely on innovation, Ding emphasizes the importance of a state's ability to adapt and diffuse new technologies across its economy. Through historical case studies of industrial revolutions and statistical analysis, he explores how technological diffusion has shaped the rise and fall of great powers. The book offers critical insights into current global competition, particularly concerning emerging technologies like AI and the US-China power balance.
Militaries are still waiting for the AI revolution
Science|Business
August 22, 2024
A multinational study found that defense ministries are overly focused on data and have yet to fully harness the potential of artificial intelligence in warfare. The adoption of AI technology in military settings is still primarily focused on processing large amounts of data, rather than transformative uses. The article highlights the current challenges and opportunities in implementing AI in military contexts, emphasizing the need for more advanced AI systems that can understand context and adapt to changing circumstances.
Defense Priorities in the Open-Source AI Debate
Masao Dahlgren
Center for Strategic and International Studies
August 19, 2024
The article discusses the debate surrounding the regulation of open foundation models in artificial intelligence. It explores the potential impacts on defense industrial priorities and the benefits of an open foundation model ecosystem for the U.S. Department of Defense.
The article highlights the importance of open-source AI models in defense applications and the need for a quantitative assessment of the fiscal impacts of open ecosystem. It emphasizes the role of open models in improving defense supplier diversity, competitive sustainment, security, and reliability in AI-powered defense systems.
INTERNATIONAL
China
Is Xi Jinping an AI doomer?
The Economist
Aug 25th 2024
The debate within China over AI development is intensifying, with accelerationists pushing for rapid progress to maintain global competitiveness, akin to past significant national projects. However, influential scientists, including Turing Award winner Andrew Chi-Chih Yao, are raising alarms about AI's existential risks, arguing it could surpass the dangers of nuclear weapons. This growing concern has influenced recent government discussions, signaling a potential shift towards more stringent AI safety regulations under President Xi Jinping’s guidance. The internal debate in China reflects broader concerns about balancing rapid AI advancements with safety, which directly impacts military AI integration. As China navigates this tension, the outcome could shape global AI military strategies and influence how AI technologies are developed and deployed in defense.
Russia
Russian defense plan kicks off separate AI development push
Maxim Starchak
Defense News
August 16, 2024
Russian officials have unveiled a new 10-year defense plan that includes a dedicated section on artificial intelligence, signaling Moscow’s focus on fielding autonomous weapons. The move comes as Russia’s full-scale invasion of neighbor Ukraine has triggered an AI arms race on the battlefields there, especially in aerial and land drones, that analysts believe will shape future conflicts. The Russian government is investing in the development of artificial intelligence for defense applications, including autonomous weapons, missile defense systems, artillery shells, and aerial drones. AI is also being used to improve production processes and military campaigns, with a focus on increasing efficiency and accuracy in military operations.
Japan
Resist the seductive power of AI in military decision-making
The Japan Times
August 21, 2024
The integration of large language models into war-game simulations and planning promises faster scenario analysis, but recent research highlights significant issues, including a risk of escalation. War gaming is in, with rising tensions around the world obliging military establishments to scrutinize specific contingencies more intensely.
The article discusses the use of AI in military decision-making, highlighting the potential benefits of faster scenario analysis but also warning about the risks of escalation. It emphasizes the importance of resisting the seductive power of AI in this context.
Japan eyes ‘game-changing’ military hardware to tackle its manpower shortage
Julian Ryall
South China Morning Post
August 18, 2024
Japan plans to establish a new research center focused on advanced military hardware to address its manpower shortage and enhance defense capabilities. The center will develop technologies like hypersonic missiles, AI-powered drones, and systems using electromagnetic waves to detect submarines. The Japanese defense ministry aims to leverage AI in various military applications, including target detection, logistics support, and cybersecurity. However, Japan has committed to not developing fully autonomous lethal weapons, focusing on enhancing operational efficiency due to a manpower shortage.
Nigeria
US official holds talks in Africa on responsible use of military AI
The Associated Press
August 21, 2024
A U.S. State Department official visited Nigeria to discuss the responsible use of artificial intelligence in military applications. The goal is to minimize risks associated with AI in the military context and ensure compliance with international laws. The article highlights the importance of responsible use of AI in military operations and the need for international cooperation to address inherent human bias in AI systems.
Australia
Artificial intelligence at war
Peter Layton
Australian Strategic Policy Institute
August 20, 2024
There's a global arms race under way to work out how best to use artificial intelligence for military purposes. The Gaza and Ukraine wars are now accelerating this. These conflicts might inform Australia and others in the region as they prepare for a possible AI-fuelled ‘hyperwar’ closer to home, given that China envisages fighting wars using automated decision-making under the rubric of what it calls ‘intelligentization’. The article discusses the increasing use of artificial intelligence in military operations, highlighting how AI-driven systems are shaping military strategies and decision-making processes in conflicts such as the Gaza and Ukraine wars.