US Unveils National Security Plan to Step Up Use of AI
By Anuj Chopra
Washington (AFP) Oct 27, 2024
In a significant move to bolster national security, the United States has unveiled a comprehensive strategy aimed at enhancing the use of artificial intelligence (AI) within the Pentagon and intelligence agencies. This initiative, announced on Thursday, marks the first formal approach to countering the growing threats posed by global rivals, particularly China, in the realm of military and intelligence capabilities.
A Historic National Security Memorandum
The newly released National Security Memorandum is a pivotal document that seeks to balance the dual objectives of leveraging AI for national defense while simultaneously safeguarding civil rights. National Security Advisor Jake Sullivan emphasized the importance of this strategy during his address at the National Defense University in Washington, stating, "This is our nation’s first ever strategy for harnessing the power and managing the risks of AI to advance our national security."
The memorandum comes on the heels of President Joe Biden’s executive order issued a year prior, which aimed to regulate AI and position the United States as a leader in global efforts to manage its risks. This latest directive underscores the urgency of adopting AI technologies more swiftly than adversaries, who are in a relentless pursuit to enhance their military and intelligence capabilities.
Addressing Strategic Threats
The United States is particularly focused on developing AI applications in critical areas such as cybersecurity and counterintelligence. A senior Biden administration official highlighted the necessity of curbing the risk of "strategic surprise" from adversaries, noting that countries like China are also striving to modernize their military and intelligence frameworks through advanced technologies.
The memorandum outlines a clear imperative: to accelerate the adoption of cutting-edge AI capabilities within the national security community. This urgency is driven by the recognition that the rapidly evolving landscape of AI technology will likely intensify military and intelligence competition among global powers.
Procurement and Access to AI Systems
To implement this strategy effectively, American security agencies are being directed to gain access to the "most powerful AI systems." This involves significant efforts in procurement, ensuring that the United States remains at the forefront of technological advancements. A second administration official reiterated the belief that outpacing adversaries is crucial for maintaining a competitive edge in national security.
While much of the memorandum is unclassified, it does contain a classified annex that addresses specific threats posed by adversaries. This dual approach aims to ensure transparency in the use of AI while also recognizing the need for confidentiality in certain aspects of national security.
Ensuring Responsible Use of AI
Alongside the memorandum, the government has released a framework document that provides guidance on the responsible use of AI by federal agencies. This framework is designed to ensure that the adoption of AI technologies is conducted in a manner that upholds ethical standards and civil liberties.
In light of these developments, civil society groups have raised concerns regarding the potential implications of AI deployment by intelligence agencies. In July, over a dozen organizations, including the Center for Democracy & Technology (CDT), sent an open letter to Biden administration officials, urging the incorporation of robust safeguards to protect civil liberties and ensure transparency.
Samir Jain, vice president of policy at the CDT, emphasized the importance of democratic accountability, stating, "It is critical that uses of AI are subject to democratic accountability notwithstanding legitimate needs for secrecy." He called on the White House and Congress to ensure oversight, asserting that "we cannot rely on national security agencies to grade their own homework."
Conclusion
The United States’ new national security plan to enhance the use of AI represents a crucial step in addressing the evolving threats posed by global rivals. By prioritizing the development of AI applications in national security while simultaneously advocating for transparency and civil rights, the Biden administration aims to navigate the complex landscape of modern warfare and intelligence. As the competition for technological supremacy intensifies, the balance between security and accountability will be paramount in shaping the future of national defense.