AI Revolutionizing Modern Warfare: US Must Stay Ahead to Deter Adversaries

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly transforming the landscape of modern warfare, with the United States facing increasing pressure to harness this technology to stay ahead of adversaries such as China and Russia. Software companies like Govini and Palantir are at the forefront of this technological revolution, developing cutting-edge weapon systems and software that give military commanders an unprecedented advantage.

The rise of AI in warfare has been evident at the second annual AI Expo for National Competitiveness in Washington, where software companies showcased their latest technological advancements to the nation's top military brass. Fox News gained exclusive access to this event, witnessing firsthand the transformative power of AI and interviewing key industry leaders.

Palantir CEO and co-founder Alex Karp emphasized the critical importance of AI dominance for US national security, stating that "The way to prevent a war with China is to ramp up not just Palantir, but defense tech startups that produce software-defining weapons systems that scare the living F out of our adversaries." He warned that if the US fails to maintain its AI advantage, Russia and China will seize the opportunity, potentially leading to dire consequences.

Fears that AI could lead to killer robots and remove humans from the decision-making process have raised concerns and threats of regulation. However, Karp dismissed these anxieties, emphasizing that the US has consistently outpaced its adversaries in AI and must continue to do so to deter any wrongdoing.

"Our adversaries have a long tradition of being not interested in the rule of law, not interested in fairness, not interested in human rights, and on the battlefield. It really is going to be us or them," Karp explained. "You do not want a world order where our adversaries try to define new norms. It would be very bad for the world, and it would be especially bad for America."

Fox News witnessed groundbreaking demonstrations of AI technology, including Mixed Reality Command and Control goggles that allow soldiers to visualize the battlefield, enemy targets, and supply routes in 3D. Former intelligence analyst Shannon Clark, now leading research and development at Palantir, believes this technology could have significantly shortened the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan.

Clark guided Fox News through various demonstrations, showing how US generals can use AI to make critical decisions in real time. "It's about speed. What was able to be done in days or weeks is now done in minutes," Clark said.

As drone swarms become increasingly prominent in modern warfare, knowing the exact weapons available is crucial. Clark introduced Maverick, an AI-generated target effector that analyzes target priority, weapons effects, and available ammunition, providing commanders with vital information.

Govini, another AI software company, showcased its Ark software, which maps potential supply chain issues for the Defense Department. "When we think about the Indo-Pacific in particular, we talk a lot about the scale, and analysts say it's going to be all about scale. You are not going to be able to do this alone," Clark said.

Intelligence tips from US allies can be seamlessly integrated with Palantir software, allowing for the quick identification and targeting of enemy ships in the Pacific. Clark emphasized that human decision-makers remain crucial, with AI enhancing their capabilities by providing faster, more efficient, and more comprehensive information.

The Pentagon recognizes the transformative power of AI and its ability to enhance the effectiveness of existing weapons. Joint Chiefs Chairman Gen. C.Q. Brown Jr. emphasized the importance of staying ahead of adversaries in this critical domain.

"I don't play for second place. If I'm in, I'm putting my best foot forward to make sure we are going to win," Brown said.

Capitol Hill is also embracing AI's potential, with a bipartisan group of senators led by Majority Leader Chuck Schumer introducing a 33-page report urging Congress to invest $32 billion in AI over the next three years. Senator Mike Rounds emphasized AI's potential beyond defense, including applications in healthcare and chronic illness treatment.

Karp addressed concerns about the ethical implications of AI, arguing that the US must establish rules of law to contain its development while maintaining its dominance in the field. "What we have to do as Americans is get these technologies into our DOD warfighting systems as quickly as possible ... and then show on the battlefield things that no one else can do," Karp said.

As the world navigates the complexities of modern warfare, the United States must continue to harness the transformative power of AI to deter adversaries, maintain its technological superiority, and ensure its national security in the years to come.