The panel discussion was organized by CNTR as part of the German Forum on Security Policy hosted by the Federal Academy for Security Policy (BAKS). CNTR experts gathered to discuss the challenges posed by dual-use technologies. The event highlighted the complexity of regulating technologies that can be used for both civilian and military purposes or be misused for nefarious purposes, emphasizing the need for robust regulatory frameworks. These insights were primarily based on the CNTR Monitor published at the end of 2024.
Kadri Reis opened the discussion with a look at the dual-use properties of biotechnology. She pointed out that advances in gene synthesis and AI have democratized access to technologies once reserved for state laboratories. While this democratization fosters innovation, it also raises concerns about misuse by non-state actors. Kadri Reis emphasized the lack of a competent global framework to regulate these advances and noted that existing treaties, such as the Biological Weapons Convention, are outdated and lack enforcement mechanisms.
Liska Suckau focused on the implications of additive manufacturing, particularly in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war. She highlighted examples of 3D-printed military objects such as drone parts and mine-laying systems. She discussed the dual-use risks of this widely distributed technology, emphasizing that while it offers flexibility and innovation, it also poses significant regulatory challenges as it is extremely accessible to hobbyists and not just for professional use. Therefore, she stressed the need for regulations and control bodies to prevent misuse by extremist groups.
Thomas Reinhold spoke about the role of AI and semiconductors in the military. He underscored the importance of semiconductors for current AI trends and the geopolitical implications of their supply chain. He pointed out that China leads in the production of >28nm semiconductors, while the USA and Taiwan dominate the high-performance chip market. He highlighted the strategic challenges arising from global dependencies and the need for European self-sufficiency. Reinhold recommended expanding semiconductor production and research in the EU, leveraging global dependencies, and protecting strategic companies from foreign influence.
Niklas Schörnig discussed the development of drones and emphasized their dual-use potential. He noted that drones, originally developed for asymmetric warfare, have found civilian applications in transport and video. The surprising use of small drones by ISIS, which the US military subsequently adopted, was particularly significant. He discussed the regulatory challenges posed by drones and the lack of specific regulations against their use in targeted killings and civilian harm. Niklas Schörnig emphasized the need for the military to recognize the dual-use potential of seemingly unproblematic civilian technologies.
The panel discussion concluded with a Q&A session, where CNTR researchers discussed various approaches to regulating AI and other emerging technologies. This included the necessity of risk assessments for dual-use technologies and the importance of dialogue with experts in natural and technical sciences to understand the impacts of technological developments. Scientists should also be encouraged to think creatively about future military technologies and engage with policymakers to develop realistic scenarios and mechanisms for arms control.
The panel discussion underscored the urgent need for comprehensive governance frameworks to address the dual-use challenges posed by emerging technologies. The researchers emphasized the importance of collaboration between scientists, policymakers, and industry stakeholders to ensure responsible innovation and mitigate potential risks.
With the panel discussion the scientists also provided insights into their current research, which will converge in the next Monitor in November 2025, focusing on AI.
