Autonomous Artificial Intelligence in Armed Conflict: Toward a Model of Strategic Integration, Ethical Authority, and Operational Constraint

Authors

Elise Annett, National Defense University
James Giordano, Center for Disruptive Technology and Future Warfare, Institute for National Strategic Studies, National Defense University

Files

Description

This commentary explores how autonomous artificial intelligence (AI) is changing the nature of armed conflict and what it means for military strategy. AI-enabled systems, from autonomous sensors to decision aids, can improve situational awareness, speed decision cycles, and support complex operations. But the increasing autonomy of these systems also raises ethical, legal, and strategic questions, especially about accountability, control, and escalation risk. The article proposes a model for integrating autonomous AI into strategy that balances capability gains with ethical oversight and operational restraint. It concludes that responsible adoption of autonomous AI will require clear policy frameworks, robust governance, and multinational cooperation to ensure stability and uphold international norms.

Document Type

Article

Topic(s)

Emerging Science and Technologies, Defense Policy, National Security

Region(s)

United States

Publication Date

9-17-2025

Keywords

autonomous artificial intelligence, AI in warfare, strategic integration, military AI, autonomous systems, decision support, armed conflict, ethical governance, AI governance, escalation risk, defense innovation, national security technology, multilateral cooperation

Recommended Citation

Annett, Elise and Giordano, James, "Autonomous Artificial Intelligence in Armed Conflict: Toward a Model of Strategic Integration, Ethical Authority, and Operational Constraint" (2025). Strategic Insights. 35.
https://digitalcommons.ndu.edu/strategic-insights/35