In a race against China’s increasing dominance in the drone market, legislation is gaining momentum in Congress to provide substantial funding for the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) into drone technology. Chairman Frank Lucas of the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology spearheads this critical initiative, demanding urgent action to preserve America’s national security interests.
China’s stronghold on the drone market is alarming, with one company closely tied to the Chinese Communist Party and the People’s Liberation Army manufacturing 80% of recreational drones in the U.S. This concentration not only threatens our privacy but also compromises our national security.
To counter this rising challenge, Chairman Lucas presents the National Drone and Advanced Air Mobility Research and Development Act. This legislation aims to allocate approximately $1.6 billion over the next five years to bolster American drone manufacturers and maintain our superiority.
Esteemed organizations such as NASA, the Department of Homeland Security, and scientific agencies will be empowered to provide grant funding for drone research, specifically exploring the role of AI and machine learning in enhancing drone capabilities. By harnessing these technologies, the U.S. can remain at the forefront of innovation and protect our national interests.
Dr. Jamey Jacob, an authority in drone technology, highlights the intense competition between the U.S. and China. While the U.S. leads in AI algorithm development, China excels in producing affordable consumer-level drones. It is crucial to take swift action to retain our position as a global leader.
Current drones equipped with AI components already possess collision avoidance and obstacle navigation capabilities. The next frontier lies in empowering drones to operate in GPS-denied environments and navigate through hostile territories. This advancement would grant us unparalleled military capabilities, ensuring the safety of our troops and the success of our missions.
While the Pentagon’s primary objective is to utilize AI to assist human decision-making, discussions are underway regarding granting drones the autonomy to determine when to deploy weaponry. This development could revolutionize warfare, enabling rapid decision-making and protecting American lives.
The unanimous approval of Chairman Lucas’s bill by the House Committee on Science, Space, and Technology highlights the bipartisan support for strengthening drone technology. It paves the way for a potential floor vote later this year, demonstrating our unwavering commitment to protect America’s national security and maintain our dominance in the drone market.
Source Fox News
