The advent of new technologies in military warfare can result in a dramatic increase of military capabilities and the possibility for a new era. The use of killer robots and lethal autonomous weapons as well as biotechnologies is raising concerns and threatening international relations. These technologies are not covered by international agreements, and the U.S. withdrawal of the INF Treaty could undermine the New START Treaty. Some experts are concerned that the new weapons systems might lead to a breakdown or the arms control system. Some fear that these new technologies may be dangerous for international peace and stability, while others worry about the potential militarization of international relationships.
Artificial intelligence
The Pentagon has been trying to harness AI for new military technologies. Many companies are concerned about how the military might use such technology. Google was one of the companies to pull out from Project Maven, which was designed to create image recognition systems that could be used by drones. The controversial project sparked a heated debate over human rights and led many high-profile AI researchers to promise never to work on lethal AI.
Synthetic biology
Synthetic biology is already being used in military application. Synthetic biology research was one of the top ten research priorities at the Army Research Laboratory. It is managed by the U.S Army Futures Command. The Office of Naval Research studies natural systems as potential sources of inspiration to develop new military technologies. For example, the Office is investigating the use of biology to design new materials, sensors, and devices. It is also working to develop new power strategies that can be used in service.
Gene editing
Genomics and biotechnology can also be used to create military genomes. This new technology depends on the ability edit gene orders and structures. The newly reformed gene structure and order are similar to a lock that only the creator of the tool can open. Gene editing is a potential military application because many human genes can be attacked.
Additive manufacturing
The United States Army intends to add additive manufacturing to its arsenal. In 2016, the Department of Defense issued a roadmap to allow the military explore the technology. The plan focuses on increasing the efficiency of the military's logistics process and material readiness.
Small quadcopter drones
The U.S. Army works on new military technologies that involve drones. Cluster UAS Smart Munition For Missile Deployment is one of them. It looks very similar to a real-life AFADS. This new technology will require drones to be much cheaper than existing weapons and systems.
High mobility rocket artillery systems
The sale of the High Mobility Rocket Artillery System to Romania was approved by the United States. The multi-stage rocket-launching platform can launch missiles at more than 50 km range. This system includes the necessary equipment and support systems.