The US plans to build AI satellites that are capable of defending themselves

Artificial intelligence is one of the hottest new trends in technology, with several corporations pouring large sums of money into developing it and integrating it into their services. AI allows a system to carry out certain tasks with almost no human intervention. In light of this, the United States Air Force has announced plans to build autonomous satellites that can evade missiles and even other satellite mounted weapons.

This may very well be the beginnings of a new kind of space race, with nations mobilizing their resources to weaponize space. Satellites have been instrumental in providing secure communications and real-time military intelligence for over three decades. However, these eyes in the sky are not invulnerable. In 2007 China carried out a successful anti-satellite missile test to destroy one of its weather satellites. The United States had conducted a similar operation in 1985 when it destroyed one of its satellites.

The integration of artificial intelligence is intended to give satellites real-time maneuvering capabilities in order to be able to dodge incoming anti-satellite missiles. Losing these space-based platforms during a war can be a major setback in monitoring and surveillance. In the 21st century, they have become an integral part of the intelligence infrastructure, enabling countries to intercept enemy communications and providing real-time information of troop movements.  

With the increasing number of corporations launching their own aerospace divisions, space will undoubtedly become the next frontier for exploration and militarization.