NATO, the North Atlantic Treaty Organization, has issued an updated Artificial Intelligence (AI) strategy to encourage the responsible application of AI in defence initiatives and to counter threats posed by adversaries using AI technology. In 2021, NATO initially adopted an AI strategy that endorsed six Principles of Responsible Use (PRUs) for leveraging AI in defence, which include Responsibility and Accountability, Explainability and Traceability, Reliability, Governability, and Bias Mitigation. The need for an updated strategy shows the rapid advances of AI technology in defense and underscores the importance NATO places on adapting to its complexities.
As the capabilities of AI technology become more sophisticated, new challenges have emerged including concerns around the decreasing global availability of good-quality public data for AI model training. Additional concerns include the impact of computation-intensive AI on energy consumption as well as issues of accountability when applying dual-use solutions in military applications.
NATO’s revised strategy envisages that AI integration will become a regular feature in the tools its member nations use in defence. The strategy indicates intentions to integrate AI into Allied capabilities, facilitated by high-quality data through commitments made in the NATO Defence Planning Process. A key goal to facilitate this is access to specialized laboratories and testing facilities no longer limited to government facilities but also corporate labs.
The strategy also notes the potential effects that AI’s advancement could have on military and civilian jobs, thus requiring retraining programs, expertise enhancement, job role changes, and deeper incorporation of tech experts in military operations. The widespread adoption of autonomous technology like drones, robot soldiers, and autonomous jets could significantly shift the roles of soldiers, necessitating their move to alternative employment.
In its observation on AI’s potential threats, NATO emphasizes on the concerns of disinformation and technologically facilitated violence that could impact societal and institutional trust and stability. The revised strategy highlights the potential for AI to be weaponized, influencing election outcomes, and creating societal divisions. The strategy indicates that in an AI-dominated space, crucial strategic decisions could be made instantaneously, particularly in situations of conflict.
Additionally, the updated AI strategy acknowledges the commercial ownership of powerful AI models as a challenge. Given the urge of corporations to sell their AI products on a global scale, it’s crucial for NATO to determine how they can influence the responsible use of this technology without limiting access to vital AI components. With China making significant progress in AI, despite sanctions by the western powers, the balance between access and accountability may prove to be the key challenge for NATO in its new AI strategy.
In conclusion, NATO’s revised AI strategy offers a comprehensive overview of current AI challenges, potential threats, and the direction it plans to take to integrate AI into military operations responsibly. It provides a roadmap for leveraging AI responsibly while mitigating risks, considering the rapid evolution of AI technologies.
