DeepSeek Enters the Fray: Implications for Open-Source AI, Tech Giants, and US-China AI Competition

DeepSeek’s R1 open-weight reasoning model, which matches the performance of leading proprietary models, could democratize AI development, though it may also heighten risks of algorithmic jailbreaking by malicious actors. While R1’s efficiency challenges Nvidia’s dominance in GPU sales by delivering top-tier performance with lower compute costs, the market's response may be overstated, as cheaper model training could drive higher overall costs. Additionally, US export controls limiting China’s access to advanced AI chips forced DeepSeek to innovate, and tighter restrictions could spur Chinese innovation in semiconductor design, further intensifying the US-China AI competition.

Benchtop DNA Printers - Biosecurity and Proliferation Risks

DNA synthesis technology can print DNA from digital sequence representations, allowing researchers to study and engineer biological systems. Next-generation benchtop DNA synthesis devices provide greater confidentiality, enabling a wider range of users to print DNA in home laboratories. However, this also creates risks as malicious actors can produce dangerous pathogens without oversight. The convergence of AI with DNA synthesis technology has amplified concerns about AI-bio capabilities.

Retrospective Decryption: Harvest Now, Decrypt Later

With rapid advancements in quantum computing, cybersecurity experts and adversaries are likely to begin to explore and assess the weak points in current cryptographic systems. One of the most discussed challenges is popularly called “Harvest Now, Decrypt Later” or Retrospective Decryption.

At its core, retrospective decryption embodies a surveillance-oriented approach, involving the acquisition and long-term retention of currently unreadable encrypted data which can then be decrypted through a quantum computer.

Drone Proliferation in Modern Warfare: A Closer Look at Iran and Ukraine

The case studies of Iran and Ukraine underscore the far-reaching impact of drone proliferation on contemporary conflicts. The rapid growth and globalisation of the Unmanned Aerial System (UAS) industry have created numerous access points for parties looking to acquire drones. While the sector's growth has democratised the technology, the increasing number of states using drones highlights a troubling trend of proliferation.