Military Application of Artificial Intelligence

International Situation and Possible Choices by Japanese Academic Researchers

Abstract

　 Some states are now focusing in research and development of autonomous weapon using Artificial Intelligence (AI), which is expected by them as critical tools to advantageously expand the war. However there are accusations by some other states for its inhumanity. United Nations has started discussion officially on this issue last November.

　In Japan, Ministry of Defense (MOD) is focusing military application of advanced technology including AI autonomous weapon, and started research funding for academic researchers. In response, there has been debate in Japan on whether academic researchers should commit military research or not. In this paper, current international situations and facts on AI autonomous weapons, and debate on social responsibility of scientist in Japan are examined.