Kim Sun-ho, the former Deputy Minister of National Defense, emphasized the need for military and civilian collaboration in addressing requirements for Defense AI (AX) from development to operational deployment. He argued that the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) should not merely enhance existing weapon systems but fundamentally change the nature of warfare and operational execution.
Appointed as a senior management advisor at Naver in August, Kim spoke on the topic of 'The Essence of Defense AX from a Military Perspective' at the Defense AI Day seminar held at the Shilla Hotel in Seoul on September 18.
Citing the Russia-Ukraine war, Kim highlighted how AI is transforming not only weapon systems but also the conduct of warfare. He noted that as drones evolve into AI-connected combat systems, troop deployment and frontline operations are also changing.
Kim pointed out the significance of data and connectivity systems established by the private sector in battlefield applications. He stated, "The essence of Defense AX is not merely to introduce a new system but to change our methods of conducting warfare and operations through it."
He stressed that the approach to military-civilian cooperation must also evolve to advance Defense AX. He indicated that relying solely on traditional military-civilian collaboration would be insufficient, asserting that both sectors must work together from identifying needs to operational deployment. Kim stated, "Military and civilian entities must collaboratively solve problems on-site, from identifying needs to deployment and actual operations."
Additionally, Kim cautioned that military AI transition hubs should not remain as mere research spaces. He argued that AI must be trained to understand the characteristics of the South Korean military and its adversaries, as well as the terrain and operational methods, and that there should be a verification environment and acquisition system in place.
He also emphasized that despite the growing role of AI, final decision-making should rest with humans. AI can analyze battlefield data to predict enemy actions and suggest the likelihood of success, potential damage, and required time for various responses.
Kim concluded by asserting that the ultimate goal of Defense AX should not be the mere introduction of new systems but rather a tangible enhancement of military capability. He stated that military and civilian sectors must work together from identifying needs to operational deployment, ensuring that changes in operational methods lead to actual military strength improvements.
* This article has been translated by AI.
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