White House Memorandum on Advancing U.S. AI Leadership
On October 24, the White House issued an ambitious and comprehensive National Security Memorandum (NSM) on artificial intelligence (AI). The NSM aims to advance U.S. AI leadership by providing “further direction on appropriately harnessing AI models and AI-enabled technologies in the United States Government, especially in the context of national security systems while protecting human rights, civil rights, civil liberties, privacy and safety in AI-enabled national security activities.”
Described as a “framework for the future,” the NSM tasks the U.S. with leading the charge in developing advanced AI systems while doubling down on efforts to guard critical technologies against espionage. The plan also promotes using domestic semiconductors to boost AI capabilities, following earlier federal investments in chip manufacturing.
The memo also outlines specific protocols to mitigate risks, including potential biases, privacy violations, and abuses. It empowers federal agencies to update these policies regularly, ensuring they stay ahead of evolving challenges.
International cooperation is also addressed. The NSM directs the U.S. government to work with allies to shape global norms around AI use, especially in military and diplomatic contexts. “We must mobilize our partners to address challenges no country can solve alone,” the memorandum emphasizes.
The memo also addresses the important work of the AI Safety Institute which “shall serve as the primary United States Government point of contact with private sector AI developers.” It will work closely with government agencies and private sector companies to ensure that AI systems are innovative and secure. This collaboration between national security agencies and the private sector is expected to play a crucial role in shaping the future of AI security.
This memorandum is important, and the stakes are quite high. As the memo says, “The future of AI will define the global balance of power, and we intend to lead it.”