Russian developers used Claude to build 'kamikaze' attack drone software (www.theguardian.com)

A team of Russian freelance developers has utilized the AI chatbot Claude to create software for autonomous “kamikaze” drones, capable of selecting and attacking targets without human intervention. According to Anthropic, the company behind Claude, these drones were programmed to identify targets in Ukraine's Donetsk region, exemplifying a significant escalation in the use of AI technology in warfare. This development underscores the increasing trend of bad actors leveraging artificial intelligence for military purposes, raising concerns about the implications for ethical standards in AI application and the future of drone warfare. The report also highlighted that cybercriminals are increasingly employing AI in cyber-attacks, including sophisticated phishing and malware evasion techniques targeted at Ukrainian government and military sectors. Notably, a group linked to Russia's Midnight Blizzard threat actor employed AI to adapt their malware dynamically to evade detection, illustrating how AI could enhance the effectiveness of cyber operations. As the conflict in Ukraine intensifies, with targeted drone strikes and a noticeable increase in both physical and cyber warfare strategies, the utilization of AI technology by both state and non-state actors is becoming a pivotal factor in modern military engagements.