What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to distinguish between sovereign AI and open-source AI by identifying essential components of sovereign AI.

July 14, 2026Open Access

Can you build sovereign AI on open models? Sovereign AI vs open-source AI

MIMicky IronsMaryland Institute College of Art

Key Points

The aim is to distinguish between sovereign AI and open-source AI by identifying essential components of sovereign AI.
Described features of sovereign AI, including owned inference and update control.
Outlined the role of post-quantum signed audit records in AI governance.
Discussed practical implementations including hardware-bound identity and jurisdictional operation.
Sovereign AI requires more than open weights; it demands controlled governance features.
Defined characteristics of sovereign AI facilitate regulatory compliance for buyers.
Outlined the necessity of a robust audit mechanism for AI actions, ensuring verifiability.

Abstract

Open weights alone are not sovereign AI. They are one necessary ingredient. Sovereign AI adds owned inference, a controlled update channel, a post-quantum signed audit record, hardware-bound identity and in-jurisdiction operation, so a regulated buyer can run, govern and prove the system under their control.Originally published at https://mickai.co.uk/articles/sovereign-ai-vs-open-source-ai. Mickai is a Sovereign Intelligence Operating System; the Open Audit Record signs every artificial intelligence action before it executes, post-quantum and offline-verifiable. 104 filed UK patent applications, Mickai LTD (Companies House 17166618).

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