A scientist has demonstrated how a small drone can be quickly configured with artificial intelligence (AI) to autonomously target and chase individuals, raising concerns about the potential for weaponization. Luis Wenus, an entrepreneur and engineer, initially configured the drone for a game but realized its potential for harm when he incorporated facial recognition and object detection capabilities.
The AI-equipped drone, developed in collaboration with engineer Robert Lukoszko, can identify individuals and pursue them at full speed. With a range of up to 33 feet (10 meters), it could be weaponized to target specific individuals or groups. Wenus warns of the ease with which such drones could be armed with explosives, posing a significant security risk, especially in crowded public spaces.
Wenus advocates for urgent development of anti-drone systems to safeguard civilian environments. He emphasizes the need for countermeasures such as cameras, acoustic sensors, and radar to detect drones, along with disruptive technologies like radio frequency jammers and GPS spoofers. However, he refrains from sharing any code related to his experiment, recognizing the potential misuse of such information.
While not yet deployed in civilian settings, similar weaponized drones have been conceptualized and used in warfare, as seen in Ukraine’s response to Russia’s invasion. Additionally, the U.S. military is exploring the development and control of drone swarms for offensive purposes, highlighting the growing concern over the proliferation of autonomous weapons technology.
Wenus’s experiment underscores the urgent need for proactive measures to address the potential threats posed by AI-equipped drones, both in civilian and military contexts.