Source URL: https://news.slashdot.org/story/24/10/31/2030255/us-army-should-ditch-tanks-for-ai-drones-says-eric-schmidt?utm_source=rss1.0mainlinkanon&utm_medium=feed
Source: Slashdot
Title: US Army Should Ditch Tanks For AI Drones, Says Eric Schmidt
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AI Summary and Description: Yes
Summary: Eric Schmidt advocates for the replacement of traditional tanks with AI-powered drones, citing their effectiveness in modern warfare, particularly in recent conflicts like the war in Ukraine. He emphasizes the rapid advancements in drone technology and autonomy, suggesting a shift in military strategy towards cost-effective, AI-driven solutions.
Detailed Description:
– Eric Schmidt, former CEO of Google, proposes that the US Army should phase out traditional tanks in favor of AI-powered drones, a strategic shift he deems necessary in the context of modern warfare.
– His comments were made during the Future Investment Initiative in Saudi Arabia, where he highlighted the obsolescence of tanks, suggesting that they be donated or replaced.
– Schmidt references the war in Ukraine to illustrate the effectiveness of low-cost drones, which have been able to incapacitate much more expensive tanks, exemplifying the modern battlefield’s changing dynamics.
– He noted that even consumer-grade drones have demonstrated lethal capability, showcasing the vulnerabilities of traditional armored vehicles in current combat scenarios.
– Schmidt’s initiatives, including the founding of White Stork, aim to support Ukraine by developing affordable drones capable of autonomous operation, particularly in challenging environments affected by GPS jamming.
– His insights are particularly significant given his previous role as chair of the United States National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence, where he provided important recommendations related to national defense and AI utilization.
– Schmidt’s prediction indicates a future military landscape where autonomy and cost-efficiency will dictate combat strategies, suggesting a potential reduction in reliance on conventional military equipment such as tanks and artillery.
Key Points:
– Proposal to replace tanks with AI-powered drones for modern military strategy.
– Evidence from recent conflicts, particularly in Ukraine, supports this shift.
– Focus on cost-effective and autonomous drone technology.
– Insights from a leader in technology and national security emphasize the urgency of adapting military strategies to evolving technologies.
Overall, Schmidt’s remarks underscore the implications of AI in defense technology and the potential for significant transformations in military operations.