Nuclear test-ban body to use AI to enhance global monitoring: chief

The Vienna-based Preparatory Commission for the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty Organization (CTBTO) plans to utilize artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance its global monitoring capabilities, according to Executive Secretary Robert Floyd. Floyd explained that AI will enable more precise and efficient analysis of data collected from over 300 monitoring stations worldwide. These stations gather seismic and low-frequency sound wave readings, which are analyzed for faint signals to determine nuclear test occurrences.

The CTBTO is currently capable of detecting nuclear explosions of at least 500 tons of TNT equivalent. However, detecting smaller tests remains challenging. In February 2023, the United States accused China of conducting a secret underground nuclear test in June 2020, but the CTBTO could not confidently attribute the two small seismic events observed to a nuclear test.

Floyd emphasized that future detection challenges of tests below 500 tons will require a combination of technological advancements, international consultations, and on-site inspections.

Japan, which suffered atomic bombings during WWII, has fully cooperated with the CTBTO in terms of funding and technology. Floyd expressed gratitude for Japan's valuable contributions to global peace and security, highlighting the importance of entry into force of the Comprehensive Nuclear-Test-Ban Treaty (CTBT) for on-site inspections to become possible.