At different times throughout history, certain technological developments have represented significant leaps forward that not only affect how we relate to each other ethically, legally and socially, but they can change the global balance of power for decades to come. Most recently, artificial intelligence (AI) has taken center stage as that new development, and it’s positioned to have a major influence on an uncertain future. While AI offers potential benefits that can’t be ignored, it also represents potential risks that must be managed, and we must consider the consequences of a peer or near-peer adversary jumping ahead and developing that capability more fully before we can. Proactive AI development is now a matter of national security.

In his National Defense article, AI in Defense: Navigating Concerns, Seizing Opportunities, Cybernet Systems Corporation’s chief technology officer, Dr. Charles J. Cohen, introduces some basic vocabulary and concepts (especially helpful for the layperson), which may likely be referenced in future conversations regarding the use of AI in defense. He also describes the advantages, dangers and potential solutions to concerns associated with a new technology that may well change the world. Click here for Dr. Cohen’s article.