Autonomous Military Systems

Report

Characterizing the Uncrewed Systems Industrial Base

The Department of Defense has hypothesized that future demand for uncrewed systems (UxS) will strain the capacity of the defense industrial base (DIB). This report contains an analysis of UxS demand and recommendations on strengthening the DIB.

Report

Russia's Asymmetric Response to 21st Century Strategic Competition: Robotization of the Armed Forces

The authors explore Russian views on the military applications of robotics and artificial intelligence and how they differ from the United States' views on the matter. They assess whether Moscow has delivered -- or can deliver -- its robotization vision.

Commentary

As F-15s Leave Okinawa, an Opportunity to Change Indo-Pacific Air Tactics with Unmanned Options

As it considers its future force mix and posture in the Indo-Pacific region and elsewhere, the U.S. Air Force has options that go beyond traditional platforms. Among them are rapidly maturing concepts for generating and sustaining high-tempo operations in forward areas with autonomous, runway-independent air vehicles.

Report

Emerging Technology Beyond 2035: Scenario-Based Technology Assessment for Future Military Contingencies

This report presents the development and implementation of a technology assessment process to help the Army understand the implications of key emerging technologies that could be important for Army missions in the years 2035 to 2050.

Report

Supporting the Royal Australian Navy's Campaign Plan for Robotics and Autonomous Systems: Enhancing Innovation

The authors describe approaches the Royal Australian Navy might consider for enabling innovation with, and rapid acquisition of, robotics, autonomous systems, and artificial intelligence (RAS-AI) in the near and medium terms.

Journal Article

Emerging Trends in Naval Mining Capabilities

Although mines using decades-old technology remain menacing, several broad technological trends are likely to enhance the threat from naval mines in the next few decades.

Report

Systematic Method for Prioritizing Investments in Game-Changing Technologies: The Evaluation and Comparison Process Framework

This report summarizes a framework and process to characterize and compare potential game-changing technologies based on likely operational advantage, given specific technological capabilities, challenges of implementation and cost.

Report

Supporting the Royal Australian Navy's Campaign Plan for Robotics and Autonomous Systems: Human-Machine Teaming and the Future Workforce

The authors provide an overview of the various impacts of robotics, autonomous systems, and artificial intelligence (RAS-AI) on the Defence workforce to inform the Royal Australian Navy's ongoing efforts to facilitate RAS-AI integration.

Report

Exploring the Civil-Military Divide over Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is anticipated to be a key capability for enabling the U.S. military to maintain its dominance. How do software engineers and other technical staff in the industry view the defense community? Are they willing to contribute to AI-related projects for military use?

Report

Supporting the Royal Australian Navy's Campaign Plan for Robotics and Autonomous Systems: Emerging Missions and Technology Trends

This report provides a high-level review of the current landscape and future trajectory of robotics, autonomous systems, and artificial intelligence from the perspective of maritime missions and enabling technologies.

Periodical

RAND Review: January-February 2022

The cover story highlights the risks of geoengineering -- the large-scale manipulation of environmental processes to control climate. The Q&A with Jacqueline Burns sheds light on how her military experience informs her approach to research and analysis.

Report

Supporting the Royal Australian Navy's Strategy for Robotics and Autonomous Systems

The Royal Australian Navy has embarked on an ambitious plan to modernise its maritime capabilities to support Australia's defence strategy. What should the Navy consider when developing its robotics, autonomous systems, and artificial intelligence strategy?

Report

How Japan Can Prepare for Future Conflicts

When it comes to emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence and unmanned systems, how does Japan compare to other countries? How can it deter and counter possible aggression from an adversary that is more advanced in these areas?

Journal Article

Deceive the Enemy with Emerging Technologies

By using technology to deceive and confuse adversaries, the U.S. Navy can gain a competitive edge.

Report

An Experiment in Tactical Wargaming with Platforms Enabled by Artificial Intelligence

RAND researchers explored the capabilities and limitations of future artificial intelligence and machine learning weapon systems in two wargame experiments that brought together operators and engineers.

People

Krystyna Marcinek

People

Austin Wyatt