Nuclear Security and the Nuclear Supply Chain in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

The recent revolution in artificial intelligence (AI) technology will present new challenges for nuclear security. While AI technology can create new opportunities to strengthen nuclear security, it will also provide new tools and methods for malicious actors to undertake cyberattacks and target AI systems integrated into nuclear facilities. It may also provide malicious actors with new opportunities to target the nuclear supply chain, with significant consequences for nuclear security.

VCDNP Senior Fellow Dr. Sarah Case Lackner and Research Associate Mara Zarka authored a new report providing an overview of risks and opportunities related to AI technology, nuclear security, and the nuclear supply chain, focusing on the new and evolving risk aspects of AI systems integrated into nuclear facilities, AI models used by malicious actors, and data security challenges associated with AI technologies. 

The report draws on a workshop entitled “Nuclear Security in a Changing World: Exploring Evolving Supply Chain Risks related to Artificial Intelligence”, held on 14 and 15 January 2025, as well as expert research.

Key conclusions on this topic, aimed at States and international organisations, include:

• Guidance, policies, and regulations to secure the nuclear supply chain need to proactively account for the risks and benefits of AI technology. 
• Capacity-building, awareness-raising, and training on the nexus between AI systems and models and nuclear security is needed, particularly with respect to the nuclear supply chain.
• AI systems can be used by nuclear and cybersecurity professionals to help secure the nuclear supply chain. 
• Continued research is needed on the relationship between nuclear security and AI systems and models to alert of emerging concerns and to help prepare for future disruptive developments.

The VCDNP thanks Global Affairs Canada for their generous support of this project.