Human Augmentation SIP

Part 2 – Human augmentation technologies

b. The most transformative technologies (for example, genetics and brain

interfaces) currently sit at a relatively low level of maturity and their implementation

would have significant policy considerations. The potential impact of these

technologies, however, means that Defence should monitor them closely and be

ready to seize opportunities as they arise.

c. Pharmaceuticals are widely thought to be the archetypal performance

enhancers, but this field is changing rapidly and new developments in brain

chemistry, psychochemicals, neuropharmaceuticals, cell and gene therapies should

be followed closely. Medical countermeasures are also relevant since aggressor

states and/or lone actors might find these options easier to employ.

d. None of the human augmentation technologies exist in a bubble and there

are linkages between many of them. Bioinformatics and collection and analytics

(encompassing sensors and artificial intelligence-enabled processing) are relatively

uncontroversial but with a high transformative potential. In addition, they will support

the use of other human augmentation technologies, as illustrated by the shading on

the matrix.

Figure 6 – Feasibility assessment

Significant and complex policy

considerations, low

transformative potential

Significant and complex policy

considerations, high

transformative potential

Familiar policy considerations,

low transformative potential

Familiar policy considerations,

high transformative potential

Significant policy

considerations

Low transformative potential

Familiar policy

considerations

High transformative potential

1. Identify opportunities
   and integrate now

Science and technologies

1. Genetics – germ line modification


2. Genetics – somatic modification


3. Gut microbiome


4. Invasive brain interfaces


5. Non-invasive brain interfaces


6. Passive exoskeletons


7. Pharmaceuticals


8. Powered exoskeletons


9. Optimisation methods
   Science and technologies that
   enables others


10. Bioinformatics


11. Collection and analytics
    = Low technological
    maturity
    = High technological
    maturity


12. Monitor 2. Understand and be
    prepared to seize
    opportunities

1

4 2

5

6

10

11

9

7 8

3