India, with its vibrant tech industry, is investing in artificial intelligence (AI) for military applications, driven by the need to counter China's technological advancements. The country is developing autonomous robots, enhancing surveillance capabilities, and exploring partnerships with the US to stay ahead in the AI race.
India is stepping up its investment in artificial intelligence (AI) for military applications, driven by the growing threat posed by its regional rival, China. The country's defense spending on AI currently stands at around $50 million a year, but experts emphasize the need for greater investments to match China's substantial outlay.
China's military modernization efforts have made it a global leader in AI research and development, with investments exceeding $1.5 billion annually. Recognizing this gap, India is seeking to boost its domestic AI capabilities and acquire foreign-made chips to enhance its defense AI hardware.
India has ambitious plans for its military AI program, focusing on developing a "national sovereign AI capability" for defense applications. The Indian Army has showcased its latest defense artillery robot, capable of traversing rugged terrain, removing unexploded shells, and doubling as a stretcher. The navy is also believed to possess autonomous aquatic robots that can explore underwater environments.
The Indian Army's Signals Technology Evaluation and Adaptation Group (STEAG) is actively researching and evaluating emergent technologies, including AI, for potential applications in modern warfare. India and the US have partnered in the field of AI, discussing its military implications at high-level meetings.
Levesques, a research fellow at the International Institute for Strategic Studies (IISS), highlights India's talent advantage and English proficiency as potential strengths in countering China's capabilities. However, he also notes that both adapting US technology and developing indigenous solutions require significant time and effort. India is pursuing a two-pronged approach, leveraging both foreign collaboration and domestic innovation.
AI is revolutionizing modern warfare by enhancing intelligence gathering, providing real-time situational awareness, and assisting in training and education. Generative AI, based on large language models, is proving particularly valuable for understanding complex operating pictures and simulating exercises.
Intelligence, training, and education are the three main areas where AI is expected to have a significant impact. AI-powered drones and robots could patrol borders, reducing the need for human intervention in dangerous situations.
While AI holds immense potential for military applications, concerns have been raised about its potential misuse, such as the spread of disinformation through deepfakes. India has an important role to play in shaping the ethical framework for the growing use of AI in warfare and society as a whole.
The outcome of future wars may depend on the responsible and precise use of AI. India's military is actively pursuing research and development in this field, seeking to level the playing field with China and become a leading force in the AI-driven battlefield of the future.
