The Era of Artificial Intelligence in National Security: White House Issues Groundbreaking Memorandum
In a bold move to advance the development of artificial intelligence (AI) while ensuring national security, the White House has issued a National Security Memorandum (NSM) on AI. This strategic document outlines key actions for the federal government to promote the safe, secure, and trustworthy use of AI technology in the interest of US national security.
One of the primary objectives of the NSM is to track and counter adversary development and use of AI, safeguarding against potential threats and vulnerabilities. Additionally, the memorandum seeks to shape international norms surrounding AI governance to align with democratic values, reflecting a commitment to ethical AI practices on a global scale.
Building on previous initiatives such as President Joe Biden’s Executive Order in October 2023 and the Bletchley declaration on responsible AI development in November 2023, the NSM underscores the importance of establishing new standards for AI safety and security both domestically and internationally.
Key Action Points of the National Security Memorandum
The NSM outlines a series of critical actions for the federal government to take in order to ensure that AI is leveraged effectively for national security purposes. These actions include:
– Improving the security and diversity of semiconductor chip supply chains
– Making the collection of competitor operations against the country’s AI sector a top intelligence priority
– Designating the AI Safety Institute as the primary point of contact for the AI industry with the US government
– Emphasizing the National AI Research Resource to facilitate meaningful AI research
– Providing guidance on the responsible use of AI systems in alignment with democratic values
– Proposing streamlined procurement practices for AI systems
– Creating a framework for AI governance and risk management in national security
– Collaborating with allies and partners to establish a rights-respecting governance framework for AI
Looking towards the future of AI in national security, National Economic Advisor Lael Brainard highlighted the significance of the NSM in supporting US leadership in AI technologies. The memorandum paves the way for harnessing cutting-edge AI capabilities while fostering international cooperation and consensus on AI governance.
With the issuance of the NSM on AI, the White House is taking a proactive stance in shaping the future of AI development in the interest of national security and democratic values. This strategic document sets a clear path for advancing AI technology while safeguarding against potential risks and vulnerabilities, ensuring a safe and secure digital future for all.