Tasmanian soldier tapped to help steer future of military artificial intelligence

A Hobart-born Australian Army autonomous systems expert has been drafted to an exclusive international panel steering the future of artificial intelligence in the military.

Lieutenant Colonel Adam Hepworth has been appointed to the Expert Advisory Group for the Global Commission on Responsible AI in the Military Domain (GC REAIM).

A Hobart-born Australian Army autonomous systems expert has been drafted to an exclusive international panel steering the future of artificial intelligence in the military.

Lieutenant Colonel Adam Hepworth said the recent invitation from the Dutch Minister of Foreign Affairs to join the Expert Advisory Group for the Global Commission on Responsible AI in the Military Domain as one of “the most surprising letters” he had ever received.

Currently the director of Army’s Robotic and Autonomous Systems Implementation and Coordination Office, LtCol Hepworth is the only military or government representative from Australia appointed among the commission’s 50-strong membership.

Lieutenant Colonel Adam Hepworth has been appointed to the Expert Advisory Group for the Global Commission on Responsible AI in the Military Domain (GC REAIM).

LtCol Hepworth will use his practical military experience with AI to help the commission develop a strategic guidance report identifying short and long-term recommendations regarding policy, governance, law, and the implications for decision-making.

“The gravity of this appointment is not lost on me,” the former St Virgil’s College and Guilford Young College student said.

“This is an opportunity for Army to have a seat at the table in global AI reform and governance, and ensure our voice and our unique experience is contributing to the rules-based order.

“The commission is shaping the future of AI in the military domain, and its mission aligns with the Australian Army’s commitment to responsible AI use.”

Director-General Future Land Warfare, Brigadier James Davis, said the relationships LtCol Colonel Hepworth’s stood to build from his appointment would be of great benefit to the Australian Army, particularly for its Land Capability division.

Lieutenant Colonel Adam Hepworth has been appointed to the Expert Advisory Group for the Global Commission on Responsible AI in the Military Domain (GC REAIM).

“Our soldiers deserve advocates for responsible AI use in military, and that forms a big part of Adam’s undertaking in both Army Headquarters and the global commission,” Brig Davis said.

LtCol Hepworth said his STEM career within the defence force had provided an ideal platform for both his academic and professional pursuits.

“I’ve had an atypical career path in the Army, having been afforded incredible opportunities to contribute within STEM areas,” Lieutenant Colonel Hepworth said.

“Technology and innovation are fields I’ve been passionate about since my schooling in Hobart, and I’m thankful that Defence has allowed me to apply this passion, and in doing so has enabled me to provide a meaningful contribution in return.”