Pentagon to spend $874 million on artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning

摘要

U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) leaders plan to invest $874 million next year in artificial intelligence (AI)-related technologies to boost deterrence against potential adversaries like China, as well as to enhance efficiencies in computing, command and control, and logistics. Pentagon experts are asking Congress for AI funding in several projects, as revealed in the federal fiscal year 2022 DOD budget, which was released in June. Federal fiscal year 2022 begins next 1 Oct. The Pentagon's AI efforts now number more than 600, which is up about 50 percent over current-year levels, DOD officials say. In efforts to keep technological pace with China and other adversaries, DOD is leveraging technological advantages and investing in cutting-edge technologies like AI, hypersonic technology, cyber, and quantum computing, among others, according to DOD budget documents. New technologies like AI, autonomy, and robotics will change the character of warfare, resulting in a faster, more lethal, and more distributed battlefield, experts say.