This SSR Backgrounder provides an overview of the intersection between artificial intelligence (AI) and the defence sector, highlighting both its potential benefits and significant challenges.

Using AI in the defence sector provides the opportunity to remove extraneous, low-value activities, streamline processes, and centralize bureaucratic tasks. However, the lack of transparency in AI systems raises significant ethical concerns, especially regarding lethal military hardware.

AI is deployed in many domains, including education, finance, transport, healthcare, and national security. The defence sector, as a critical component of the broader national security sector, encompasses military capabilities and operations aimed at safeguarding a nation’s sovereignty and interests.

In the defence sector, AI’s applications range from autonomous weapons systems and drones to cybersecurity, military training, and real-time data processing. These innovations offer advancements such as improved situational awareness, autonomous systems, and the ability to process vast amounts of data rapidly, all contributing to strengthening a nation’s military capabilities.

However, the integration of AI in the defence sector raises concerns related to human rights and governance, especially given its reliance on data that may perpetuate biases, leading to potentially discriminatory practices in military operations. Moreover, the increasing dependence on AI systems introduces significant cybersecurity risks. AI technologies could be exploited by adversaries, leaving national security vulnerable to cyberattacks. 

This SSR Backgrounder defines AI and explores its applications in the defence sector, examines the risks to good governance, and offers insights on strengthening oversight through robust monitoring, enhanced transparency, accountability measures, and stakeholder collaboration.