Our daily lives and systems are deeply embedded with artificial intelligence (AI). This year, 77% of devices being used have some form of AI.¹ By the year 2030, AI is projected to contribute $15.7 trillion to the global economy by 2030.¹(National University)
Military applications of AI have a long history, and the military continues to experiment with improving efficiency and effectiveness.
Alan Turing invented the Turing Test in 1950, a test that is still used to measure human intelligence in computers today. It was not until 1956 that the term “Artificial Intelligence” was coined.
During the 1960s, the US Defense Department began training computers to mimic basic human reasoning. Many projects of the US Defense Department have been supported by AI over the years, including street mapping projects completed in the 1970s by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). The Dynamic Analysis and Replanning Tool (DART) was implemented in 1991 and was used to schedule supplies and personnel, as well as address logistical problems.
Artificial intelligence remains a driving force in the development of defense technology and has numerous applications, whether in logistics, unmanned systems, or electronic warfare.
Intelligence and Surveillance
By enhancing threat detection, strengthening security, and improving decision-making, artificial intelligence has the potential to boost security operations.
“Scylla” is the artificial intelligence algorithm that powers the defense depot’s security architecture. Implementing this initiative involves testing the software’s ability to respond to emerging threats and improving overall situational awareness. Using live video recordings, Scylla is trained to identify a person’s features, behavior anomalies, armed and unarmed threats, and objects. Detection of threats using Scylla has been demonstrated to be 96% accurate. Physical security of DOD’s strategic nuclear arsenal is the most crucial application of Scylla.
Autonomous Weapons and Combat Systems
Autonomous Weapons and Combat Systems can perform complex tasks while navigating hazardous environments, reducing the risk to human soldiers. In addition to reducing combatant suffering by removing the need for personnel to be physically involved, these systems can reduce human error by increasing targeting precision, reducing emotional decision-making, and automating operational efficiencies and readiness.
Cyber Defense and Cyber Warfare
Cyber Defense and Cyber Warfare can be strengthened by implementing AI. As a result of its ability to identify and respond to threats faster than traditional methods, it strengthens traditional operations. In addition, they learn from each attack, improving their defenses.
Logistics and Supply Chain Optimization
Using artificial intelligence to optimize resource allocation and improve decision-making can have a significant impact on logistics and supply chain optimization. With AI-driven analytics, soldiers’ needs can be predicted more accurately, enabling them to receive supplies more efficiently when needed. This technology can also provide predictive maintenance, which can alert personnel when machinery parts need to be replaced.
Simulation-Based Training
With AI-powered technologies, warfighters can practice missions in safe environments while sharpening their skills through realistic combat scenarios. Simulated training environments can be complex and challenging while requiring a limited amount of manpower. In addition, the technology can identify knowledge gaps and track an individual’s progress.
Intelligence-Driven Decisions
Artificial intelligence is capable of assembling large amounts of data from sources such as sensors, satellites, and other intelligence platforms, as well as accessing records and army sources. By incorporating these insights, AI can help teams make better decisions based on real-time intelligence, reducing emerging threats and minimizing risk.
Ethical & Security Concerns
Despite AI’s many benefits, there are still several divisive aspects and concerns to consider. There is a general concern with the overemphasis on this technology, which could undermine human intuition and experience in complex situations.
There are ethical concerns about machines making potentially life-or-death decisions, as well as concerns over how these technologies should be regulated and monitored. In addition, there is some concern about triggering geopolitical instability. If the weapons are not effectively controlled or regulated, they could fall into the wrong hands. AI systems, due to their criticality to operations, become more attractive targets for adversaries and risk being compromised even with robust cybersecurity measures.
Cevians: Advancing Defense Capabilities
In this evolving landscape, Cevians plays a vital role by developing advanced information displays, NVIS, and electro-optic solutions tailored for defense applications. These technologies are essential for capturing and analyzing covert images from drones, satellites, and surveillance systems, providing critical visual intelligence in real time. Artificial intelligence in defense paves the way for a new era of strategic advantage, where technology and human expertise collaborate to ensure global security.
