Artificial Intelligence (AI) in the Military: A Detailed Overview
Introduction to Defense AI
Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing modern battlefields, providing militaries with faster, more precise, and more efficient systems. Its integration into defense systems is altering geopolitical dynamics, making the development and utilization of these technologies crucial for contemporary armies. AI is used in numerous military domains, from decision support and robotics to intelligence and cyber defense.
Concrete Applications of AI in the Military
- Golden Ears: The “Golden Ears” project uses AI to massively analyze underwater acoustic data, helping analysts focus on high-value signals and reducing data processing time by nearly 98%. This advancement was showcased at the Viva Technology 2024 exhibition, highlighting the enhanced efficiency AI brings to military operations.
- DeMAIA: Integrated into Griffon armored vehicles, this AI-based tool aids in optical surveillance, detecting targets up to three kilometers away from the sensors, even at the forest edge. This capability significantly enhances rapid and precise enemy detection, a crucial advantage for ground forces.
- Rora: This application quickly identifies spare parts from a simple photo, which is particularly useful for maintenance operators in hostile environments. It even works offline, essential for on-field repairs, thus reducing logistical errors and maintenance delays.
- Deepfake Detection: AI can detect deepfakes, falsified videos, images, or audios, protecting deployed units from misinformation. This capability is vital for maintaining operational security and the reliability of information.
- Pilot Training: An AI tool analyzes pilot training data to identify difficulties early, allowing instructors to target their efforts and maximize the chances of trainee success. This personalized approach significantly improves the efficiency of military training programs.
Challenges and Constraints of AI in Defense
Integrating AI into critical military systems presents unique challenges. One major issue is “embarkability,” the need to process data as close to the sensor as possible to minimize data transmission between the sensor and the command base. Computational power must be deployed in units like fighter jets, where connectivity can be limited and contested on the battlefield. AI systems must be efficient in terms of energy consumption and size, necessitating continuous technological adaptation and investment.
Ethical Aspects and Security
AI developments raise ethical questions, particularly regarding autonomous systems. For example, Thales has a clear policy prohibiting the manufacture of AI systems capable of making engagement decisions autonomously. A human must always validate these decisions to ensure ethical responsibility. Additionally, specialized teams work on hacking AI systems to identify and correct vulnerabilities, ensuring these systems are robust against attacks.
Conclusion
AI in the military represents a significant advancement, offering major operational gains while posing technical and ethical challenges. Its adoption and development will continue to transform military capabilities, making armed forces more effective and better prepared for future challenges. France, with initiatives like the Ministerial Agency for Defense Artificial Intelligence (Amiad), is positioning itself to be a global leader in this strategic field.
