The Pentagon has secretly approved an updated doctrine for the use of AI in selecting battlefield targets, according to Bloomberg. The document, signed in April, is not classified but has not been released to the public.
The new formulation outlines “combat systems where artificial intelligence initiates actions under human monitoring.”
According to the document, the speed of wars and adversaries’ progress in AI may require U.S. military forces to develop “fully autonomous systems.” It is stated that the new technology should reduce the “sensor-to-shooter” cycle and increase the pace of operations.
The doctrine expands AI’s role in processing intelligence data. Specifically, systems should more quickly correlate target information from multiple platforms, creating a more comprehensive picture of the situation. Commanders are encouraged to use neural networks more actively for analysis, decision-making, and risk management.
The document also includes provisions for “reducing harm to civilians.”
However, the Pentagon warns of the consequences of over-reliance on algorithms. The text mentions “serious moral and legal dilemmas” and the need for clear ethical guidelines for AI-made decisions. An appendix on automation integration emphasizes that it does not replace human thinking and proactive communication.
The department described the doctrine review as the result of years of work, taking into account exercises, war games, and assessments of the future security environment.
“The Department of Defense ensures that humans are always aware of important operational decisions. The department’s AI technologies do not allow for autonomous target selection or strikes. This ensures that commanders remain accountable for every decision, allowing them to act with the most current and accurate operational picture,” a Pentagon spokesperson told journalists.
On the same day as the Bloomberg article, the department released a separate press release about “launching an agent network to transform battle management and target selection systems.”
“We are creating an interoperable network of AI agents that provides commanders with faster access to higher-quality information while keeping human judgment at the center of every targeting decision,” noted Cameron Stanley, the Pentagon’s Chief Digital Officer.
Journalists highlighted that back in 2023, UN Secretary-General António Guterres called for a ban on lethal autonomous weapon systems, describing them as “politically unacceptable” and “morally repugnant.”
In June, the Pentagon reported a 1775% increase in AI adoption among its personnel.
