AI is the new Manhattan Project

AI in defense and military systems

In an earlier post entitled “From OpenAI to MilitaryAI”, I discussed the implications of OpenAI’s involvement in military projects through Microsoft, and the organizational challenges that OpenAI would inevitably face.

More relevant for this article:

…contrary to nuclear power, I do not think we will ever see restrictions on the usage of AI in the military, as this is such a competitive advantage that nobody wants to be late on this train.

Looks like I was closer to the truth than I thought…

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Earlier this week, the SCSP AI Expo 2024 took place in Washington, D.C., gathering the most prominent AI companies and the public sector including defense and military representatives.

As part of the many sponsors, Palantir, a well-known AI company, highlighted its vision in this trailer:

The “AI Deterrence” Strategy

We should be so dominant that nobody can even imagine we’re not number one… as with the Manhattan Project…

AI is perceived as strategically important as nuclear deterrence in the defense doctrine.

I am still waiting to see the equivalent “AI deterrence” in an official document, but I am convinced it will happen soon.

Empowered by the Private Sector

We should not underestimate America’s software advantage.

Conscious of its advantage, the US private sector is leading the way in AI development, and the defense sector will benefit from it to maintain its technological edge and military superiority.

It is Already Happening

We cannot hesitate on building and deploying AI into the hands of warfighters.

There are two unquestionable driving arguments that will forge public opinion and command political decisions:

• “If we don’t do it, someone else will”
• “We must do it to protect us and the lives of our soldiers”