AI Resort-to-Force
Remarks from TPEX consultancy for decision makers.
Can we make AI systems safe for war fighting?
Written SH on 2025-04-05.
An intriguing paper on AI-assisted resort-to-force decisions, focusing on the systems being developed and the crucial role of integrators in shaping their implementation. The discussion highlights the need to value their expertise as these technologies advance.
In complex human-machine configurations, integrators carry responsibility for linking the disparate groups of developers and users in the political and military system. To act as the mediating group requires a deep understanding of the other groups’ activities, perspectives and norms.Müller, D., Chiodo, M. and Sienknecht, M., 2025. Integrators at War: Mediating in AI-assisted Resort-to-Force Decisions. arXiv preprint arXiv:2501.06861. online.
The role of integrators is undeniably critical, especially as AI systems begin to surpass human monitoring capabilities. Does this necessitate a fundamental redesign of the software development process? Moreover, given that these very systems are on the verge of being disrupted by AI advancements, how should we approach their evolution?
How should we assess the effectiveness of AI in resort-to-force decisions? Should success be measured by strategic victory at any cost, or by the broader goal of preserving humanity?
Of course, no amount of education or technological improvement can prevent the potential harm caused by an AI system deciding to go to war. Thus, society should do everything possible to address the potential challenges and complications arising from this new scenario.Müller, D., Chiodo, M. and Sienknecht, M., 2025. Integrators at War: Mediating in AI-assisted Resort-to-Force Decisions. arXiv preprint arXiv:2501.06861. online.
If AI were ever entrusted with control over resort-to-force decisions, how would human oversight be balanced with the urgency of state defence? Could delays caused by human intervention pose a risk, and, more importantly, how do we ensure that AI does not autonomously initiate conflict?
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References
Müller, D., Chiodo, M. and Sienknecht, M., 2025. Integrators at War: Mediating in AI-assisted Resort-to-Force Decisions. arXiv preprint arXiv:2501.06861.URL.
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