Meta’s AI Llama finds its way into China's defense strategy as PLA researchers develop ChatBIT for military use

Article published on: 1st November 2024

Credit: straitstimes.com

In Summary:

China’s Military Adopts Open-Source AI for Defense Applications
China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has leveraged Meta's open-source Llama model to create a specialized AI, dubbed ChatBIT, for potential military uses. Researchers at Beijing-based institutions, including the Academy of Military Science (AMS), have enhanced Meta’s Llama 13B model with military-focused parameters, enabling capabilities in intelligence analysis, simulation training, and potentially, command decision-making. Meta, however, has stringent policies against military use of its AI models and emphasized that any such use by the PLA is unauthorized.

Open-Source Debate and AI Regulation
Meta's stance on open innovation highlights the advantages of publicly available models but raises security concerns in the U.S., with officials wary of such tech being used by foreign militaries. Amidst this, the U.S. government has imposed measures to manage AI developments, reflecting broader concerns over AI’s dual-use nature. Observers note that China’s robust investments in AI research and collaborations with Western scientists challenge efforts to prevent them from advancing in the field.

Increasing AI Applications Across Defense and Security
China’s adaptation of Western-developed AI extends beyond the military. Research reveals Llama’s role in “intelligence policing” and electronic warfare, showcasing a broad application spectrum. Experts suggest that such efforts underscore China’s ambition to lead globally in AI by 2030, even as collaboration with international researchers continues to fuel advancements in the sector.

For the full article, visit the original post on straitstimes.com: Chinese researchers develop AI model ChatBIT for military use on back of Meta’s Llama