The United States is seriously considering integrating AI into its decision-making regarding the use of nuclear fire

A revolution in nuclear weapons control or the first step towards the world of Terminator?

For those who have never seen it, Terminator is a film set in the near future where man fights against machine after an Artificial Intelligence, Skynet, started the 3rd world war by firing missiles from the States -United towards Russia. Reality seems to merge with fiction since the head of the United States Strategic Command (STRATCOM) recently responded to an interview where he suggested that artificial intelligence (AI) could soon play a key role in decision-making regarding nuclear weapon of the country.

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NC3 and the need for a thorough overhaul

US Air Force General Anthony J. Cotton, who has led STRATCOM since December 2022, stressed the critical importance of modernizing NC3 (nuclear command, control and communications) capabilities. He explains that STRATCOM is “exploring all possible technologies, techniques and methods to assist in this modernization”.

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The role of AI in decision-making

At the Department of Defense's 2024 Information and Intelligence Systems Conference, General Cotton said AI could improve decision-making capabilities but insisted it should never be allowed to AI to make these decisions autonomously. Human supervision must remain central to ensure the effective integration of these capabilities.

Increase decision space for leaders

AI can provide managers with more “decision space”, securing the entire nuclear enterprise. Cotton emphasizes the importance of this technology in staying ahead of adversaries who seek to challenge the United States, ensuring that nuclear command and control capabilities are always ready and unwavering.

The challenges of modernizing NC3

Despite the urgency expressed by senior national security officials, improvements to NC3 have been piecemeal. Experts such as Peter L. Hays of the Center for Strategic and International Studies and consultant Sarah Mineiro criticized this piecemeal approach in an Atlantic Council blog, calling for more coherent action.

AI and associated risks

Introducing AI into the NC3 system comes with risks, including misplaced trust in AI, “poisoned” data, inaccurate algorithms, and more. However, General Cotton sees more promising potential, saying AI and advanced data analytics can provide decision-making advantage and improve deterrence posture.

Towards secure AI integration

Chris Adams, general manager of Northrop Grumman's Strategic Space Systems Division, emphasizes the need for deliberate and careful integration of new NC3 systems, with or without AI. He likens this process to grabbing the next ring on the playing field before letting go of the previous one, illustrating the caution needed to avoid vulnerabilities.

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This article explores STRATCOM's approach to integrating artificial intelligence into nuclear command, control, and communications. Gen. Anthony J. Cotton emphasizes the importance of careful modernization to improve decision-making while maintaining human control. The article highlights the need for technological upgrading in the face of growing threats and discusses the risks and promises of AI in the context of national security.

Source : air and space forces

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