Defense Technology Monitor No. 105

Related Categories: Intelligence and Counterintelligence; Military Innovation; Science and Technology; China; United States

A LOW-COST BOMB BOOSTS U.S. MARITIME POWER
A potential conflict with China remains a key focus for Pentagon planners, and any skirmish between the U.S. and the PRC is likely to take place at sea. In response, the Air Force has developed the low-cost QUICKSINK bomb, which can be deployed from bombers (with a range of 15 miles) to enhance anti-ship capabilities. Using Joint Direct Attack Munition (JDAM) guidance kits and advanced seeker technology, QUICKSINK can target both stationary and moving vessels. Drawbacks exist, however; while the new bomb creates a new strike option, beyond aircraft carriers and submarines, its limited range exposes bomber pilots to China's sophisticated anti-aircraft defense systems. (Business Insider, August 10, 2024)

FUTURE-PROOFING ENCRYPTION
Today's encryption technology can keep our data secure, but that may change with the advent of quantum computers. As a result, there's a growing need to develop new algorithms to better protect information against the potential of nefarious actors decrypting sensitive information when quantum technology is more accessible. In response, the U.S. government's National Institute of Standards and Technology recently released three new cryptographic algorithms specifically designed to resist attacks from advanced quantum technology. These post-quantum cryptography tools were developed by putting out a call for help and crowdsourcing answers from companies like IBM. In turn, putting new cryptographic methods in place today will help secure critical infrastructure, government networks, and financial systems against emerging cyber threats. (Politico, August 13, 2024)

SURVEILLANCE, LIKE A SHARK
For years, intelligence collecting drones have mimicked insects and birds, but now sophisticated underwater drones are imitating marine life. China has revealed the world's first intelligent robotic whale shark which blends space and marine technologies. Impressively, the underwater robot has a unique propulsion system resembling the real-life creature, allowing it to minimize underwater encounters. This 5-meter-long machine can mimic the movements and physical attributes of a real whale shark — it's even capable of swimming at speeds up 0.7 meters per second and diving up to 20 meters with precision. The Shenyang Aerospace Xinguang Group equipped the robot with advanced sensors, cameras, and BeiDou positioning. The new robotic shark has potential applications for underwater mapping, water quality monitoring, and possibly even military operations. (Global Defense News, August 16, 2024)

BIOSECURITY CONCERNS GROW AS GENE EDITING ADVANCES
The development of the gene-editing application CRISPR, and its subsequent use by a Chinese doctor to alter the genome of three babies, shocked the world several years ago (see Defense Technology Monitor no. 39). Advances in gene-editing technology have continued since, and while much of the critical focus has been on the resulting potential to alter embryos (something that is mostly illegal globally), altering the genes of adults is actually at least as likely to take place. In fact, scientists warn, the ease of using CRISPR and other gene-editing tools could allow governments or even terrorists to alter people's DNA without their consent. New advances, meanwhile, are adding more credence to the potential for creating super soldiers; some researchers now envision a future where gene-editing could be used to temporarily enhance abilities — such as making cells resistant to radiation. Moreover, groups advocating gene therapies to increase muscle mass already exist in places like Honduras. As CRISPR becomes more accessible, the lines between medical innovation and biosecurity threats will need to be carefully monitored to prevent misuse in both the public and military domains. (Technology Review, August 22, 2024)

SELF-TRAINING ROBOTS – A NATIONAL SECURITY RISK?
Advancements in artificial intelligence are accelerating, and innovations in robotics innovation are not far behind. MIT researchers, for instance, have introduced a new self-training algorithm for robots called "Estimate, Extrapolate, and Situate (EES)," which allows robots to train themselves without human intervention. Using vision systems to monitor their tasks, robots can determine whether and how to optimize their performance on a given function and then can generate their own training program to improve. The algorithm proved successful when tested on Boston Dynamics' Spot robot dogs, who demonstrated improvement when completing their routine duties. While the intended use for EES is to enhance the ability of robots to perform menial tasks, the advancement raises potential national security concerns as well – since it can theoretically be repurposed to enhance the capabilities of armed or tactical robots. (BGR, August 23, 2024)