Chinese Military AI Raises Concerns Among U.S. Lawmakers

The TDR Three Key Takeaways regarding Chinese Military AI and U.S. Lawmakers:

• AI advancements in Chinese military exercises spark U.S. legislative action.
• Buchanan highlighted the danger posed by these AI robot dogs and successfully introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). 
• The FY25 NDAA continues to make investments in innovative emerging technologies, like AI, to ensure that our military remains the most capable and lethal force in the world, Rep. Mike Rogers said. 

A video from Chinese state media has created significant concern among U.S. lawmakers. The footage showcased Chinese military AI robot dogs carrying and firing rifles autonomously during military drills in Cambodia. These AI advancements have raised alarms about the potential threat posed by Chinese military AI, leading to legislative action and a renewed focus on maintaining U.S. technological superiority.

Rep. Vern Buchanan, R-Fla., has been a vocal advocate for addressing the threat from Chinese military AI. Buchanan highlighted the danger posed by these AI robot dogs and successfully introduced an amendment to the National Defense Authorization Act (NDAA). This amendment mandates the Pentagon to report on China’s use of AI in its military operations. Buchanan stated and reported on Fox News, “If we don’t pay attention to what other countries around the world are doing on the AI front, we risk losing our standing on the global stage and position as the world’s preeminent fighting force.” He added, “Anyone that tells you that China will only be using these for purely peaceful purposes has their head in the sand.”

The amendment, one of 18 authored by Buchanan for the NDAA, passed without opposition in the House, reflecting bipartisan support for prioritizing U.S. military advancements in AI technology. Buchanan emphasized the critical importance of staying ahead in AI developments, not just for military purposes but also for economic leadership. “We’ve received a lot of positive feedback about our amendment. The fact that it passed without opposition from a single member of Congress on either side of the aisle should tell you everything you need to know,” Buchanan noted and reported on Fox News.

Buchanan’s concerns are shared by other lawmakers, including Rep. Mike Rogers, R-Ala., who stressed the need for innovation in AI to counter China’s advancements. Rogers stated and reported on Fox News, “Prioritizing innovation is vital if we want to stay ahead of China military.” He also highlighted the ongoing investments in emerging technologies, “The FY25 NDAA continues to make investments in innovative emerging technologies, like AI, to ensure that our military remains the most capable and lethal force in the world.”

The U.S. military is already integrating similar AI technologies into its operations. The Marine Corps’ Special Forces Operation Command (MARSOC) employs robotic quadrupeds for security purposes, showcasing the practical applications of AI in enhancing military capabilities. These advancements underscore the importance of continued investment and innovation to maintain technological superiority.

The Senate is expected to debate the NDAA soon, following the House’s approval of the bill with a vote of 217-199, mostly along party lines. Lawmakers like Buchanan and Rogers view the AI threat from China as a pressing national security issue, necessitating swift and decisive action to ensure the U.S. military remains at the forefront of technological advancements.

Buchanan’s emphasis on the AI threat is clear: “This should make everyone take notice and ensure our military is staying one step ahead of them at every turn.” The passage of the NDAA amendment without opposition highlights the broad recognition of the need to address the challenges posed by Chinese military AI.Ensuring U.S. military dominance requires vigilance and proactive measures against technological advancements by adversaries. The bipartisan support for Buchanan’s amendment highlights a commitment to maintaining U.S. leadership in defense technology, with a focus on AI innovation in the upcoming Senate NDAA debate. Want to be updated on Cannabis, AI, Small Cap, and Crypto? Subscribe to our Daily Baked in Newsletter!