Schmidt's views align with a broader trend in military innovation towards autonomous drones, as noted by Scott Sacknoff of Spade Index. This trend is prompting the defense sector to develop technologies to counter these drones. Schmidt argues that traditional warfare methods, such as using tanks, are becoming obsolete, and highlights the cost-effectiveness and strategic advantage of drones. He stresses the need for human authorization of AI-generated battle plans to maintain legitimacy and control in military operations.
Key takeaways:
- Eric Schmidt, former Google CEO, believes AI-controlled drones are the future of warfare, with human operators ensuring they remain under control.
- Schmidt's startup, White Stork, is developing AI drones for Ukraine and aims to use AI in complex and powerful ways.
- Schmidt envisions a future where humans are far from the front lines, controlling networked AI drones that conduct the actual fighting.
- Maintaining "human in the loop" control is crucial to prevent autonomous weapons from making independent decisions, ensuring human oversight and accountability.