Israel Defence Forces Using AI For Target Selection

The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has recently incorporated artificial intelligence (AI) into its operations to enhance target selection for air strikes and streamline wartime logistics. As tensions escalate in the occupied territories and with arch-rival Iran, the IDF is leveraging AI technologies to improve its capabilities.

While specific operations cannot be commented upon, IDF officials confirm the utilization of an AI recommendation system to analyze vast amounts of data and identify potential targets for air strikes. This is followed by the use of another AI model called Fire Factory, which assembles and organizes air raids by calculating munition loads, assigning targets to aircraft and drones, and proposing schedules. Human operators oversee both systems, vetting and approving individual targets and air raid plans.

Notably, there are currently no international or state-level regulations governing the use of this technology in the military context. Proponents argue that advanced AI algorithms can surpass human capabilities and potentially minimize casualties. However, critics express concerns about the potential consequences of relying on increasingly autonomous systems, highlighting the risk of mistakes and lack of accountability in the event of errors.

While details about the operational use of AI in the IDF remain classified, military officials have indicated that these systems have gained practical experience through periodic flareups in the Gaza Strip. The IDF referred to the 11-day conflict in Gaza in 2021 as the world’s first “AI war,” citing the use of AI to identify rocket launchpads and deploy drone swarms. The IDF also conducts raids in Syria and Lebanon, targeting alleged weapons shipments to Iran-backed militias.

Considering the ongoing tensions with Iran and the potential for multi-front conflicts involving Iranian proxies, the IDF anticipates the need for advanced AI-based tools like Fire Factory. These tools enable faster decision-making, with what used to take hours now being accomplished in minutes, albeit with human oversight for review and approval.

The IDF has been steadily expanding its use of AI systems across various units, aiming to position itself as a global leader in autonomous weaponry. The army’s Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Center, run by the 8200 unit, focuses on interpreting vast amounts of data from drone and CCTV footage, satellite imagery, electronic signals, and online communications for military purposes.

However, concerns have been raised regarding the development and deployment of these AI tools, particularly due to the lack of transparency and potential for increased autonomy. The IDF acknowledges these concerns but asserts that human oversight remains a key aspect of decision-making. Nevertheless, the fast-paced adoption of AI may outpace research into its inner workings, and the gap between semi-autonomous systems and fully automated killing machines could narrow without adequate regulation.

As AI continues to play a significant role in battlefield systems, experts argue that it has the potential to reduce civilian casualties and enhance operational efficiency. However, they also emphasize the risks and complexities associated with its use.

Israel aims to establish itself as an “AI superpower,” although specific details about investment and capabilities remain undisclosed. The IDF and Israeli defense contractors have developed various AI systems, including Fire Factory. However, these systems are developed in secrecy, and information about their operational use is limited compared to other countries.

Currently, there is no international framework addressing responsibility for civilian casualties, accidents, or unintended escalations caused by AI systems. Concerns are raised about the testing and training data used for AI systems, particularly regarding their accuracy and precision when deployed in real-world scenarios involving human lives.

Given these concerns, some experts argue that the IDF should limit the use of AI to defensive purposes only. The importance of value-based decision-making, regardless of technological advancements, is emphasized, drawing attention to the need for human judgment in critical situations.