Keeping Tech from Crossing Borders, More Chips for AI, and Perhaps We Can Become Better Conflict Mediators With a Little Help
This week's big topic is where U.S. tech is being used, and by whom. The U.S. is grappling with defense technology leaks and scrutiny regarding Russia's use of American technology.
Simultaneously, the U.S. is increasing investment in defense technology, particularly in AI and chips for AI. Intel will likely secure a $3.5 billion deal to manufacture chips for the military, and the Pentagon's project DARPA is investing $78 million in AI technologies.
On the other side of conflicts, AI and digital technologies are being integrated into peace mediation, with the hope that they will foster more inclusive and efficient processes.
U.S. Tech Leaks
U.S. Tech Helps Fuel Russia’s War; Weapons Components Evade Sanctions, Used to Kill Ukrainians
A Senate investigation shows that American technology components, such as semiconductors and chips are used in Russian military hardware. This has raised concerns about the U.S. industry's indirect contribution to the Russian war effort in Ukraine. Companies involved have stated they comply with export laws and sanctions, but increased exports to certain countries suggest potential indirect technology transfers to Russia.
Read more on Washington Times.
US State Department Fines Boeing $51m for Leaking Defense Tech in China
U.S. State Department has imposed a $51 million fine on Boeing for exporting violations, where technical U.S. military data was accessed by Chinese employees. The investigation revealed 199 violations related to the Arms Export Control Act, including the unauthorized download of technical data by Boeing employees in China and other international locations.
Read more on The Institution of Engineering and Technology.
Investments in AI for Military Use
Intel Stands to Win $3.5 Billion to Produce Chips for Military
The U.S. government's plan to invest $3.5 billion in Intel Corp. to bolster its semiconductor production capabilities, particularly for military applications. This investment is part of a larger initiative to enhance the U.S.'s semiconductor manufacturing infrastructure.
Read more on Bloomberg.
The Pentagon is Funding New Chip Designs for the AI Era
A $78 million DARPA program called OPTIMA aims to develop new chip designs for AI applications in military settings. The chips should use fewer computing resources, enhancing efficiency in energy and size. This advancement is crucial for running complex AI programs in remote battlefield conditions where traditional cloud computing is impractical.
Read more on Defence One.
AI in Conflict Mediation and the Role of Social Media in Syria
Can AI Mediate Conflict Better Than Humans?
AI and digital technologies are being integrated into diplomacy and mediation, offering new tools for data analysis, virtual reality, and remote communication. These advancements could provide more inclusive and efficient mediation processes, though concerns about biases and the need for a shared evidence base remain critical.
Read more on Al Jazeera.
How Did Combatants’ Narratives and Social Media Shape Syria’s Civil War?
Ora Szekely's book, "Syria Divided: Patterns of Violence in a Complex Civil War" examines the impact of social media on Syria's civil war. Szekely highlights how combatants used social media to share their narratives and engage in "performative violence," influencing public perception and potentially shaping future conflicts. The book delves into the various factions in the war and their use of social media, suggesting it has become a crucial aspect of modern warfare.
Read more on Clark Now.
Fostering Defence Tech Innovation: Introducing MITS Accelerator in Ukraine
The Military Innovation Technopark System Accelerator in Ukraine is a new initiative aimed at fostering defence technology innovation. This project seeks to support Ukraine's defence capabilities through technological advancements and is part of a broader effort to enhance the country's military readiness and innovation ecosystem.
Read more on EU today.
Internet Cables in Danger and Other Stories
Red Sea Conflict Threatens Key Internet Cables
The conflict in the Middle East is threatening key internet cables. These cables, critical for global web traffic, are at risk due to maritime attacks and the region's geopolitical instability, impacting internet service in various parts of the world.
Read more on WSJ.
Leonardo CEO Discusses the 'Big Tech Challenge' Facing the Defense sector
In an interview with CNBC, Roberto Cingolani, CEO of Leonardo, notes that there are currently 55 conflicts worldwide, a number paralleled only in 1945. He emphasises the role of digitalisation, AI and autonomous systems in modern warfare and defence strategies, underscoring the need for substantial investments in computational power and cybersecurity.
Watch the interview on CNBC.
Germany’s Pistorius Says Russian Leak Part of Disinformation War
Germany's Defense Minister Boris Pistorius stated that a leaked audio recording, showing discussions about possible German missile deployments in Ukraine, is part of a Russian disinformation campaign. The leak aims to divide Ukraine's allies and undermine their unity.
Read more on Bloomberg.
China and Russia are Outpacing the US and Its Allies in Military Technology Development, Australian Defence Official Warns
Hugh Jeffrey, an Australian defence official, emphasized the need for the US and Australia to enhance their industrial and military cooperation in the Indo-Pacific to counter China's assertiveness. Jeffrey pointed out the growing military capabilities of China and Russia, underscoring the urgency for the US and its allies to maintain a competitive edge in military technology.
Read more on Business Insider.
