The US Space Force has taken a proactive step to address data security
concerns by temporarily suspending the use of web-based generative
artificial intelligence tools such as ChatGPT for its workforce. This
decision is based on a memo dated September 29, which was exclusively
seen by Reuters.
Addressed to the Guardians, as the Space Force affectionately calls its workforce, the memo explicitly prohibits personnel from utilizing AI tools, including large language models, on government computers. The ban remains in place until formal approval is granted by the force's Chief Technology and Innovation Office.
The primary reason cited for this temporary suspension is the perceived risk associated with data aggregation. Generative AI tools, which rely on large language models capable of digesting vast amounts of historical data to facilitate learning and task execution, have witnessed a significant surge in usage over the past year. These tools power a range of ever-evolving products, including OpenAI's ChatGPT, which can swiftly generate content such as text, images, or video in response to simple prompts.
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In the memo, Lisa Costa, Chief Technology and Innovation Officer of the Space Force, expressed her belief in the transformative potential of this technology, stating that it "will undoubtedly revolutionize our workforce and enhance Guardian's ability to operate at speed."
Bloomberg was the first to report this temporary ban, a report later confirmed by an Air Force spokesperson. The spokesperson, Tanya Downsworth, emphasized the strategic nature of the pause, explaining that it allows the Space Force to carefully consider how to best integrate generative AI and large language models into the roles of Guardians and the broader mission of the US Space Force.
She stated, "This is a temporary measure to protect the data of our service and Guardians." Costa, as mentioned in the memo, indicated that her office had established a generative AI task force in collaboration with other Pentagon offices. This task force's objective is to explore responsible and strategic ways to utilize this technology effectively.