The advent of new military technologies can lead to an unprecedented increase in military capabilities and the threat of a new era of conflict. There are many new technologies in the mix, including killer robots, autonomous weapons that kill, and biotechnologies. This is making international relations more difficult. These technologies are not covered by international agreements, and the U.S. withdrawal of the INF Treaty could undermine the New START Treaty. Some experts fear that these new weapons systems will lead to a breakdown of the current arms control regime. Many fear these new technologies could be dangerous to world peace. Others worry they might lead to an increase in international militarization.
Artificial intelligence
The Pentagon is trying to leverage AI in new military technologies. But many companies have concerns about the military using such technology. Google was one of the companies to pull out from Project Maven, which was designed to create image recognition systems that could be used by drones. The controversial project sparked a heated debate over human rights and led many high-profile AI researchers to promise never to work on lethal AI.
Synthetic biology
Synthetic biology is already being utilized in military applications. For example, synthetic biology research has been prioritized among the top ten research priorities of the Army Research Laboratory, overseen by the U.S. Army Futures Command. The Office of Naval Research also studies the possibility of using natural systems to inspire new military technologies. The Office investigates the potential use of biology in the design of new materials, sensors, devices, and other technologies. It also aims to develop new power strategies for service.
Gene editing
Genomics, biotechnology, and other technologies can be used in a number of military applications. These include the design of military genomics. This new technology is based on the ability of editing gene structures and orders. The new protein structure and gene orders are very similar to a lock with the key only being held by the developer. Gene editing can be used to create military weapons, as many human genes are vulnerable to attack.
Additive manufacturing
The United States Army intends to add additive manufacturing to its arsenal. The Department of Defense created a roadmap for the military to explore this technology in early 2016. This plan focuses primarily on increasing efficiency in the military's logistics processes and material readiness.
Small quadcopter drones
The U.S. Army is working on new military technologies involving drones. Cluster UAS Smart Munition For Missile Deployment is one of them. It looks very similar to a real-life AFADS. Drones will be cheaper than existing weapons or systems because of this new technology.
High mobility rocket artillery systems
Recently, the United States approved the sale to Romania of the High Mobility Rocket Artillery System. This system is a multi-stage rocket-launching system that can deliver missiles with ranges of more than 50 kilometers. The system also includes related equipment and support systems.