What does dual-use technology mean? This term refers to innovations in both hardware and software that can be used for both civilian and commercial, as well as military and defense purposes, in various applications and settings.

While the terminology originated in the post-World War II era in connection with the use of nuclear materials, dual-use now encompasses a wide range of technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced IT systems. It refers to both goods and systems that can be used for peaceful commercial purposes as well as defense or security-related activities. 

One typical example of dual-use technology is the unmanned aerial vehicle, commonly known as a drone, with uses ranging from aerial real estate photography, package delivery or surveillance activities. 

But dual-use technology includes a variety of advanced IT and AI-based systems and platforms. Here is a closer look at some critical tools. 

Dual-use technology categories and examples 

Many trending technologies and tools are considered dual-use and have a multitude of applications for enterprise, commercial, military and government use. 

Some categories and examples of critical dual-use technologies include:

• AI and AI-powered systems: For task automation, data transformation and decision making and support; includes technology such as machine learning and natural language processing
• Robotics and computer vision: For automation, autonomous systems, industrial robots and autonomous vehicles
• Data analysis platforms and software systems: Enterprise use including cybersecurity, financial analysis and decision-making 
• Biotechnology and advanced medical technologies: For use in pharmaceuticals and medical diagnostics 
• High speed, low latency wireless communications and broadband technologies (5G, 6G): For civilian and government communications 
• Sensors, cameras, thermal imaging: Applications such as building inspections, construction, manufacturing, automotive and for government and military use 
• Quantum computing: Evolving field of computer engineering and computer science that involves advanced mathematics and algorithms; aimed at large-scale problem solving critical for business and defense sectors 
• IT security and cybersecurity software: Various types of software tools, including encryption and security software, intrusion detection and cybersecurity software; vital applications in both private sector/enterprise business and government/military use

AI – A critical dual-use technology with a range of different applications 

Various types of AI tools and tech are considered dual-use technology. AI technologies are making advancements in both private enterprise and military applications. Just a few examples of the tools and technologies with both military and private sector applications include AI-powered cybersecurity, autonomous vehicles and robots, surveillance, financial analysis and biomedical research and diagnostics. 

The benefits of many advanced AI tools make them especially well-suited for dual-use purposes. For instance, platforms that support advanced AI integration with real-time capabilities can be used for both business and enterprise, as well as government systems such as technical and language training programs, emergency response systems and military intelligence. Tools that offer secure and quick delivery of AI insights for data analysis have a number of applications for business and government/public sector use. 

However, AI and AI-powered tools must have enhanced security requirements in order to function as dual-use technology. And, in many situations, enterprise business requires more advanced security and privacy protection. 

Additional security measures that are critical for AI and AI-powered tools in these cases often include the following: 

• Extra security protocols to prevent misuse or unauthorized access of systems or data 
• Secure handling of hardware, software and internal and external (customer) data
• Iterative technology assessment to identify and mitigate risks throughout the software development process
• Software that is built with security-first principles that align with government requirements
• Encrypted communications and secure access controls to ensure that sensitive data remains protected – this may include support for compliance standards such as FedRAMP, NIST or DoD IL5/IL6
• Software with capabilities and flexibility to be deployed on secure cloud environments 

Multiple government use cases for secure AI tools, software 

Secure and advanced AI tools can be well-suited for multiple government use cases. Real-time, AI-powered collaboration and communication software products with extra security can be used in a variety of government and military applications. 

Some areas and systems include: 

• Defense and intelligence: For secure collaboration on classified projects
• Public safety: Technology provides real-time situational awareness during crises using advanced data and AI tools
• Regulatory agencies: Data analysis, compliance reviews and team coordination
• Administrative offices: Secure video meetings, documentation workflows and task management
• Training and education: Provides the ability to build secure and advanced digital classrooms for military and government training, including advanced privacy 

Collaboration is key for security and innovation 

Dual-use technology is continuously subject to rigorous governance and export controls, especially as technologies such as quantum computing continue to rapidly advance. Public sector and private sector collaboration will be critical for realizing the full benefits of innovation, as well as building trust and ensuring the security of these technologies. As a result, cooperation between government agencies and businesses in the technology industry is more important than ever before, especially as AI continues to evolve.