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King's College London

Artificial Intelligence in National Security

King's College London via edX

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Overview

In this self-paced course from King’s College London, you will explore how AI technologies are transforming modern warfare, surveillance, and statecraft. Led by Professor Kenneth Payne, a leading expert in war studies, the course blends theoretical insight with real-world case studies, examining:

  • The strategic applications of AI in defence and security

  • The role of autonomy, data, and decision-making in conflict

  • The ethical and legal challenges posed by AI-driven systems

  • How states compete for dominance in the AI arms race

Through thought-provoking content and expert-led discussions, you will gain a deep understanding of how AI is influencing today's security environment - and what this means for the future of war.

This is a short course that can be completed in 5 hours — designed to be flexible and fit into your schedule.

Syllabus

Unit 1: What is AI?

Understand key concepts in artificial intelligence, including neural networks and the distinction between artificial and human intelligence.

Unit 2: The AI–National Security Connection

Explore how AI is used in military and intelligence operations, and how it changes the human role in conflict.

Unit 3: Strategic Intelligence

Examine the predictive power of AI and its use in decision-making, strategy, and human–machine collaboration.

Unit 4: Cultures of AI

Investigate how national culture influences AI development and how AI reshapes the culture of defence institutions.

Unit 5: Ethics and Regulation

Evaluate ethical concerns around AI in warfare, including autonomous weapons, accountability, and the challenge of international regulation.

Taught by

Kenneth Payne

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