In a landmark move, President Joe Biden has introduced the United States’ first National Security Memorandum (NSM) focused on artificial intelligence (AI). This memorandum builds upon previous executive orders and underlines AI’s growing importance in national security and foreign policy. As AI technologies continue to evolve rapidly, their impact on defense and security is becoming more profound.

AI and National Security

Experts are already witnessing the implications of AI in national security. Melissa Ruzzi, Director of AI at AppOmni, explains, “AI is increasingly being used by attackers to execute more complex and larger-scale attacks, particularly in social engineering and misinformation campaigns.” This highlights the urgent need for robust frameworks to manage AI technologies.

The National Security Memorandum establishes three core objectives: positioning the US as a global leader in safe AI development, leveraging AI technologies to strengthen national security, and fostering international collaboration through AI governance frameworks.

Protecting US AI Leadership

The memorandum emphasizes the importance of safeguarding US-developed AI technologies, warning that foreign competitors are using economic and technological espionage to steal critical advancements. It identifies the protection of American AI innovations as a “top-tier intelligence priority.”

The memorandum also designates the newly formed AI Safety Institute as the primary governmental body responsible for liaising with the AI industry. This institute will work closely with national security agencies, including the intelligence community, Department of Defense, and the Department of Energy, to ensure AI technologies are developed and implemented safely.

Challenges in AI Decision Making

While the actions outlined in the memorandum provide a strong foundation for AI governance, Ruzzi warns that the data required for effective decision-making is complex. “The real challenge will come after data gathering when it’s time to make informed decisions,” Ruzzi says. The memorandum stresses that decisions must be based on concrete data rather than assumptions.

Democratizing AI Research

Another major component of the NSM is its focus on democratizing AI research. The memorandum supports the National AI Research Resource pilot program, which aims to extend AI research capabilities beyond large tech companies. This program will make AI resources available to universities, civil society organizations, and small businesses, helping to decentralize the AI research landscape.

A Framework for AI Governance

The memorandum also introduces the Framework to Advance AI Governance and Risk Management in National Security, which outlines comprehensive guidelines for incorporating AI into national security strategies. The framework emphasizes the need for thorough risk assessments and safeguards to prevent issues such as privacy violations, bias, and discrimination.

Cybersecurity remains a top concern. Ruzzi points out that “misconfigured AI systems can pose significant risks, similar to misconfigurations in SaaS applications that expose confidential data.” This underscores the importance of secure AI development and deployment.

International Collaboration

On the global stage, the memorandum builds upon recent diplomatic efforts, such as the G7’s International Code of Conduct on AI and the Bletchley and Seoul AI Safety Summits. A significant diplomatic achievement is the unanimous support for the first UN General Assembly Resolution on AI, which the US led, and China co-sponsored.

Moreover, the memorandum emphasizes the importance of semiconductor manufacturing, connecting it to Biden’s earlier CHIPS Act. The directive aims to enhance the security and diversity of the US semiconductor supply chain, reinforcing American leadership in advanced computing infrastructure.

Reinforcing Responsible Innovation

The NSM is part of the broader Biden-Harris Administration strategy for responsible AI innovation. It reinforces the US commitment to maintaining technological leadership while ensuring that advancements align with democratic values and human rights. The memorandum also underlines the need to protect these values in the face of rising competition and AI-related challenges.

This move highlights how seriously the Biden administration is taking the challenges and opportunities presented by AI, ensuring that the US remains a leader in both AI development and security.

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