Artificial Intelligence and National Security
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a rapidly growing field of technology that is capturing the attention of commercial investors, defense intellectuals, policymakers, and international competitors alike, as evidenced by a number of recent initiatives. On July 20, 2017, the Chinese government released a strategy detailing its plan to take the lead in AI by 2030. Less than two months later Vladimir Putin publicly announced Russia's intent to pursue AI technologies, stating, "[W]hoever becomes the leader in this field will rule the world." Similarly, the U.S. National Defense Strategy, released in January 2018, identified artificial intelligence as one of the key technologies that will "ensure [the United States] will be able to fight and win the wars of the future." The U.S. military is already integrating AI systems into combat via a spearhead initiative called Project Maven, which has used AI algorithms to identify insurgent targets in Iraq and Syria. These dynamics raise several questions that have been addressed in congressional hearings: What types of military AI applications are possible, and what limits, if any, should be imposed? What unique advantages and vulnerabilities come with employing AI for defense? How will AI change warfare, and what influence will it have on the military balance with U.S. competitors? Congress has a number of oversight, budgetary, and legislative tools available that it may use to influence the answers to these questions and shape the future development of AI technology.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 10, 2020
- Accession Number
- AD1170086
Entities
People
- Kelley M . Sayler
Organizations
- Library of Congress