Autonomous vehicles have become more prevalent on the streets for quite some time, providing comfort and convenience to drivers. Although these systems have not reached a state where they can operate without supervision, the utilization of automated systems is expected to continue growing despite many barriers.
“When I retire, part of my dream is to get a campervan and travel all around North America,” Joseph Gallagher, robotics club coach and advisor, said. “I’d really love it if it would drive itself when I sleep and end up somewhere else [when I wake up]. I do not know if it will reach that level by that time since there are a lot of safety issues with them [self-driving vehicles]. They are still a long way off from being fully autonomous like that.”
AI technology has developed to the point where autonomy is starting to be incorporated into military purposes. Recently, summit conferences started to discuss AI technology in military services. Companies have started to create models of possible military vehicles that could be implemented starting as soon as 2026.
The Responsible AI in the Military Domain (REAIM) Summit 2024 was held on Sept. 10 in Seoul where 60 countries, including the US, endorsed “blueprints” for AI integration with military vehicles. One of the blueprints was an uncrewed military vessel called Tenebris, showcased by HD Hyundai. AI and virtual reality technology incorporation in Tenebris allows it to be controlled remotely without risking casualties.
“We have to at least look into it [AI integration in military vehicles] to be able to develop countermeasures,” Mr. Gallagher said. “I definitely see advantages to it, being able to send autonomous devices, like drones, to fight enemies. It would be better to use a machine than a person.”
Issues regarding AI in military domains will be brought up again in October during the UN General Assembly. Responsible and ethical use of AI, especially in military domains, is a serious matter that requires international agreement between nations and cannot be taken lightly. As countries continue to negotiate, we can only hope for the best.
