The United States Space Force has issued a temporary ban on the use of generative artificial intelligence tools by its staff while on duty in order to protect government data. According to a memo seen by Bloomberg News, Space Force members were informed that they are not authorised to use web-based generative AI tools to create text, images and other media unless specifically approved.

The ban has already impacted at least 500 individuals using a generative AI platform called “Ask Sage”. The decision has been criticised by Nick Chaillan, former chief software officer for the United States Air Force and Space Force, who argued that it will put the US years behind China.