AI in Command and Control: The Role of Transparency in Human–AI Planning

Author(s):

Shan G. Lakhmani

Abstract:

To support operational performance in the context of command and control (C2), partnerships between humans and AI systems have been proposed. To maximize the benefits of human–AI partnerships, however, AI partners must meet the cognitive and informational needs of their human partners; these AI partners must be transparent. This report describes how transparent systems have led to benefits in important operational outcomes, including performance, trust, and situation awareness. The goal of this report is to advocate for the design and implementation of transparent AI for C2 by identifying other contexts where transparent AI systems have led to positive outcomes and establishing parallels for possible implementation in the military decision-making process and C2.