In a move to enhance military capabilities, 60 countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, and Ukraine, have agreed to scale up the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in defense operations.
The endorsement took place during the REAIM (Responsible AI in the Military Domain) Summit, co-hosted by Kenya, South Korea, the UK, Netherlands, and Singapore on September 9-10, 2024.
Kenya’s Defence Cabinet Secretary, Soipan Tuya, emphasized the importance of adopting responsible AI practices, stating, “Developing a comprehensive regulatory framework for AI in military operations is essential. Policymakers must collaborate with technologists and ethicists to create responsible policies.”
The summit saw the exclusion of Russia for the second consecutive year due to its invasion of Ukraine. Meanwhile, China chose not to attend amid concerns over the implications of AI in defense. Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans remarked, “We must be realistic that we will never have the whole world on board. This challenge needs ongoing dialogue.”
During the conference, General Charles Kahariri, Chief of Defence Forces of Kenya, highlighted AI’s transformative potential, saying, “AI can enhance decision-making processes and improve national security.” Furthermore, the agreement acknowledges AI’s role in optimizing military operations while protecting civilians in conflict zones.
Kenya also committed to reinforcing international cooperation to combat the misuse of AI in the proliferation of weapons of mass destruction. As nations explore the potential of AI, concerns regarding ethics and humanitarian impact remain at the forefront of discussions.
