These four technologies may be weaponized, warns EU

Drones and unmanned ground vehicles are examples of autonomous weapon systems that can be equipped with AI to function without direct human direction. These devices can be employed for lethal operations as well as for target identification, surveillance, and reconnaissance.

AI may also be used to improve cyberattacks. Malware and hacking tools with AI capabilities can attack computer systems, damage vital infrastructure, steal confidential information, and conduct espionage.

Meanwhile, by enabling weapon systems to recognize and track targets more effectively, AI can also increase their accuracy. This can be especially relevant for missile defense systems and precision-guided munitions.

Quantum computers have the potential to break classical encryption methods by solving complex mathematical problems much faster than classical computers. Such, quantum computers may be used for decryption or codebreaking by nations with less than honorable intentions.

Finally, the creation and use of biological weapons is one of the most worrisome aspects of biotechnology weaponization. These often include the development of organisms that cause disease (such as bacteria, viruses, or toxins) and can be modified to become more lethal, infectious, or resistant to treatment. The deployment of biological weapons has the potential to cause pandemics, mass casualties, and societal upheaval.

In addition, biotechnologies can be used to alter the genetic makeup of organisms, including humans, resulting in genetically enhanced soldiers for foreign military use.

Preventing worst-case scenarios

Luckily, the European Commission is aware of all these risks and is seeking to take measures to avoid worst-case scenarios.

"The Commission will do risk assessments of these four technologies with member states. The deadline is by the end of the year. The next step is to mitigate the risks next year," a EU official involved in the matter told Reuterson condition of anonymity.

The weaponization of these four technologies poses significant challenges but also raises some opportunities. On one hand, these technologies can enhance security and defense capabilities. On the other hand, they can also introduce new vulnerabilities if adversaries develop similar advanced capabilities.

International efforts, such as the UE’s latest move, are ongoing to establish norms and regulations regarding the responsible use of these technologies in military and security contexts to prevent escalation and maintain stability. Will this be enough to curb any potential weaponization by non-friendly nations?