The Need for An Australian Regulatory Code for the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Military Application

Authors

Sascha-Dominik Dov Bachmann
Richard V. Grant

Abstract

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is enabling rapid technological innovation and is ever more pervasive, in a global technological eco-system lacking suitable governance and absence of regulation over AI-enabled technologies. Australia is committed to being a global leader in trusted secure and responsible AI and has escalated the development of its own sovereign AI capabilities. Military and Defence organisations have similarly embraced AI, harnessing advantages for applications supporting battlefield autonomy, intelligence analysis, capability planning, operations, training, and autonomous weapons systems. While no regulation exists covering AI-enabled military systems and autonomous weapons, these platforms must comply with International Humanitarian Law, the Law of Armed Conflict, and the Use of Force. This paper examines comparative international regulatory approaches across major allied nations in the US, UK, and Europe and suggests future direction for Australian regulation of AI in lethal application.

Recommended Citation

Sascha-Dominik Dov Bachmann and Richard V. Grant "The Need for An Australian Regulatory Code for the Use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in Military Application," American University National Security Law Brief, Vol. 13, No. 2 (2023).
Available at: https://digitalcommons.wcl.american.edu/nslb/vol13/iss2/2