How AI Will Revolutionize Military Decision-Making

How AI Will Revolutionize Military Decision-Making

Artificial intelligence (AI)is poised to fundamentally alter the dynamics of future warfare, primarily by dramatically increasing the speed of decision-making. This acceleration stems from AI's superior ability to process vast amounts of information from diverse sources, such as satellites, drones, and ground sensors, far exceeding the capabilities of the human brain. For example, the US Department of Defense is developing Joint All-Domain Command and Control (JADC2), which uses AI to process data and support commanders' decisions. This article, originally published in Japanese in *Foresight*, further details this development.

The implications of this increased speed are profound. AI can enable faster target acquisition and engagement, leading to more effective military operations. It can also facilitate real-time threat assessments, allowing for quicker and more informed responses to evolving situations. Furthermore, AI can optimize resource allocation, ensuring that personnel and equipment are deployed efficiently. In essence, AI promises to fundamentally shift the balance of power in warfare, favoring those who can leverage its capabilities most effectively.

However, the acceleration of decision-making also presents considerable risks. The heightened speed could make it easier to mistakenly initiate pre-emptive strikes or escalate conflicts unintentionally – increasing the chance of “flash wars.” The inherent speed advantage offered by AI also risks overpowering human judgment, leading to a form of overreliance on machine decisions; a scenario illustrated by incidents such as the accidental shooting down of a friendly U.S. aircraft in 2003. The original *Foresight* article discusses this danger in detail, citing expert opinions and case studies.

In conclusion, AI's transformative influence on warfare will be primarily defined by its capacity to dramatically increase the speed of decision-making. While offering the potential for faster, more efficient, and more effective military operations, the integration of AI also introduces new and potentially catastrophic risks, requiring careful consideration of the ethical and safety implications. Ultimately, the future of warfare won't be determined solely by AI itself, but by the strategic thinking and ingenuity of human operators who successfully navigate this technological sea change.