The mission of CNA’s Center for Autonomy and AI is to support the effective incorporation of autonomy, AI, and related technologies in military operations.

Throughout history, the ability to adapt technological advances to warfighting has led to fundamental changes in how war is conducted. Examples include the development of the crossbow, gunpowder-powered projectile weapons, rockets and jet aircraft, and precision guided munitions. Autonomy and AI represent revolutionary technologies that will change the future of warfare. They offer opportunities to the U.S. for countering and deterring emerging threats, addressing security challenges and advancing U.S. national interests.

But this opportunity is by no means certain, since autonomy also offers potential asymmetric advantages to peer-competitors, some of which have been pursuing these capabilities aggressively. Additionally, rapid innovation in the private sector—including commercial research and development efforts in autonomy and AI that dwarf that of the U.S. military—creates challenges for the U.S. to quickly identify and integrate cutting edge technological developments. Finally, there are potential dangers of this technology that should be guarded against, including potential unpredictability and the potential of civilian casualties in some operational contexts. Though much of the emerging technology is new, there are still many opportunities to avoid challenges and missteps that have been seen before, by learning from past lessons observed in U.S. operations and institutional processes.

Given the impact autonomy and AI will have on the character of warfare, CNA created the Center for Autonomy and Artificial Intelligence to focus on these emerging technologies and their contribution to national security. The Center capitalizes on the ability to leverage over 250 experienced researchers, many with advanced degrees and holding wide expertise and experience in a spectrum of disciplines, and connect them with government, private industry, and other stakeholders. This Center combines CNA’s strengths and experience in military operations with focused expertise in autonomy and AI.

The mission of the Center is to support the effective incorporation of autonomy, AI, and related technologies in military operations. The Center has four lines of effort:

1. Connect

Connect key stakeholders in this rapidly evolving area in which government, the private sector, and academia all have vital roles to play. Promote dialogue through events, collaboration through research initiatives, and education through robust communications.

2. Analyze

Conduct multi-disciplinary research that incorporate technical and operational insights on a range of topics, including concepts of operations, training, doctrine, policy, rapid procurement, test and evaluation, and force integration involving emerging technologies.

3. Advance

Provide insightful recommendations regarding autonomy and AI that advances the effectiveness of U.S. military operations while staying consistent with U.S. principles.

4.Innovate

Develop and refine creative approaches to the development and incorporation of autonomy and AI to military operations.