This introductory chapter sets the stage for the interdisciplinary exploration of military artificial intelligence (AI) conducted within the framework of the Designing International Law and Ethics into Military Artificial Intelligence (DILEMA) project as well as throughout this volume. It outlines the project’s vision to address the legal, ethical, and operational challenges posed by the integration of AI into military contexts, including by broadening the debate on military applications of AI beyond autonomous weapons systems, moving from meaningful human control to human agency, and seeking to ensure legal compliance in the design and development of AI systems. Next, the chapter reviews the project’s key achievements, including scholarly outputs, public engagement, and practical contributions to the debate on military AI governance. This volume builds on these achievements, bringing together twelve interdisciplinary perspectives on the promises and perils of military AI. These contributions explore the intersections of law, ethics, technology, and governance in shaping the future of military AI.