In a significant move to modernize its military capabilities, Japan’s Defense Ministry has released its first basic policy on the use of artificial intelligence (AI). This strategy aims to tackle a growing manpower shortage while keeping pace with advancements in AI technology seen in China and the United States.
Addressing Manpower Challenges
With a declining and aging population, Japan faces unique challenges in maintaining a robust defense force. Defense Minister Minoru Kihara highlighted the urgency of the situation during a news conference:
“In our country, where the population is rapidly declining and aging, it is essential to utilize personnel more efficiently than ever before. We believe that AI has the potential to be one of the technologies that can overcome these challenges.”
Key Areas of AI Application
The new policy outlines seven priority areas where AI will be implemented:
- Target Detection and Identification: Using radar and satellite images.
- Intelligence Collection and Analysis: Enhancing information-gathering capabilities.
- Unmanned Military Assets: Developing and utilizing autonomous systems.
“This will speed up decision-making, ensure superiority in information-gathering and analysis capabilities, reduce the burden on personnel, and save on labor and manpower,” the policy states.
International Comparisons
The policy acknowledges the strides made by the U.S. and China in military AI applications. The U.S. is integrating AI to improve decision-making through data analysis, while China focuses on enhancing its unmanned weapons systems. Japan’s policy stresses the need to adapt to these new warfare methodologies to remain competitive and efficient.
“We are now at a crossroads between becoming an organization that is efficient and creates its own future through the use of AI, or becoming an inefficient, old-fashioned organization that lags behind,” the policy asserts.
Managing AI Risks
The ministry also recognizes the risks associated with AI, such as errors and biases. It emphasizes that AI should be implemented under strict government guidelines and in line with international risk reduction discussions.
A crucial aspect of the policy is ensuring human oversight in AI applications. “AI supports human judgment, and human involvement in its use should be ensured,” the policy clarifies, indicating that Japan does not intend to develop fully autonomous lethal weapon systems.
Broader AI Applications
Beyond military engagements, AI will also be employed in:
- Command and Control
- Cybersecurity
- Logistics Support
- Administrative Efficiency
Enhancing Cyber Capabilities
Minister Kihara also announced an initiative to strengthen the Ground Self-Defense Force’s cyber capabilities. This includes a new exam to identify and develop recruits into commanders with cyber expertise, along with personnel exchanges with the private sector.
These AI and cyber initiatives were initially detailed in Japan’s National Defense Strategy and Defense Buildup Program, approved by the Cabinet in 2022.
