Pentagon unveils principles for using AI in war

The Department of Defense (DOD) on Monday released a set of principles for the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in war.

The broad principles include responsibility, equity and governability.

The Pentagon wrote that individuals should “exercise appropriate levels of judgment and care” when using artificial intelligence and called for capabilities developed by the DOD to be traceable.

“The United States, together with our allies and partners, must accelerate the adoption of AI and lead in its national security applications to maintain our strategic position, prevail on future battlefields, and safeguard the rules-based international order,” Secretary of Defense Mark Esper said in a statement.

“AI technology will change much about the battlefield of the future, but nothing will change America’s steadfast commitment to responsible and lawful behavior,” he added. “The adoption of AI ethical principles will enhance the department’s commitment to upholding the highest ethical standards as outlined in the DOD AI Strategy, while embracing the U.S. military’s strong history of applying rigorous testing and fielding standards for technology innovations.”