Technology roulette: Managing loss of control as many militaries pursue technological superiority

Abstract

The U.S. military’s pursuit of technological superiority, while driven by a desire for security, risks exacerbating the very dangers it seeks to mitigate. The introduction of complex and opaque technologies, such as AI and autonomous systems, carries inherent risks of accidents, unintended consequences, and sabotage. Technological proliferation further amplifies these risks, as powerful technologies fall into the hands of actors with potentially less stringent safety standards. While the U.S. can attempt to mitigate these risks through careful design, contingency planning, and international cooperation, the most significant challenge lies in fostering a collaborative approach to managing these technologies and their global consequences. The pursuit of technological dominance without a corresponding focus on managing its risks could ultimately lead to increased insecurity and unintended harms.