Artificial intelligence, semiconductors, and the new geopolitics of security: Why technology assessment must engage in emerging military technologies

Thomas Reinhold

doi:10.14512/tatup.7248

Authors

Thomas Reinhold Peace Research Institute Frankfurt (PRIF), Frankfurt am Main (DE) https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4281-7628 thomas.reinhold@prif.org

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.14512/tatup.7248

Keywords:

artificial intelligence, semiconductors, technology assessment, emerging technologies

Abstract

This conceptual research article examines the accelerating militarization of emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors, and its implications for technology assessment (TA). It highlights how quickly commercial innovation, especially in the field of AI, is integrated into military applications, thereby eluding traditional assessment methods. Drawing on examples from Russia’s war against Ukraine and global semiconductor supply chains, the article argues for more agile, technically sound, and interdisciplinary TA approaches. It calls for assessment approaches that account for real-time deployment, dual-use dynamics, and geopolitical competition. Ultimately, it advocates further developing TA to remain relevant amid fast-moving security, technological, and strategic transformations.

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