Eric Schmidt on AI’s Role in Modern Warfare and Misinformation

In a recent episode of the Moonshots podcast with Peter H. Diamandis, former Google CEO Eric Schmidt discussed the implications of AI on various aspects of society, including misinformation, national security, and modern warfare. Schmidt emphasized the dangers of misinformation at scale, highlighting the responsibility of both misinformers and platforms that spread unchecked information. He cited the example of RT (Russia Today) being banned for spreading misinformation post-Crimea invasion and stressed the ongoing battle between misinformation creators and those trying to prevent it.

Schmidt also touched on the role of AI in modern warfare, particularly in the context of the Ukraine-Russia conflict. He noted that Western militaries, currently not engaged in active wars, are slow to adapt, whereas the situation in Ukraine provides a glimpse into the future of warfare. The ubiquity of drones has transformed the battlefield, making traditional weapons like tanks and artillery increasingly obsolete. Schmidt argued that the cost-effectiveness and efficiency of drones, which can be AI-enhanced, will make it nearly impossible for countries to invade their neighbors.

He expressed optimism that once countries adopt drone technology for defense, invasions will become impractical due to the high kill ratio of drones versus traditional military equipment. However, he also critiqued the US government’s slow response in providing aid to Ukraine, suggesting that timely support could further enhance Ukraine’s defensive capabilities through asymmetric innovation.

Schmidt’s insights underline the transformative impact of AI on both information dissemination and military strategy, highlighting the need for responsible AI deployment and proactive defense measures to preserve democracies and counter autocratic aggression.