Generative Artificial Intelligence & its Military Applications by the US and China – Lessons for South Asia

Abstract

Generative AI’s (GenAI) unique characteristic of bringing innovation by creating new knowledge from existing data is visibly having wide commercial as well as military applications. Globally, military and commercial sectors are exploring GenAI to enhance their capacity, capability and attain technological superiority over others. Major developments in AI and the recent breakthroughs in generative AI models with widespread applicability in both commercial and military domains (battlefield & operational spheres) are presenting both opportunities and risks. Though it will be another revolution in military affairs, GenAI’s employment in autonomous weapons systems, poses repercussions on human security and on the moral and ethical boundaries during war and limited conflicts. It is also predicted that GenAI could act as force multiplier for disinformation and false signaling while intensifying the chance miscalculation. Modern militaries are continually expanding and advancing their defense and attack capabilities with the integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and autonomous, precision weapon systems. Recently, the research institutes of China revealed the launch of 79 Large Language Models (LLMs). Likewise, more recently ‘Task Force on GenAI (Lima)’ established by Department of Defense (DoD) is set in force to explore the capability of Gen AI to uplift the national security and bring innovation in the country`s defense sector. Also, it would enable the US to analyze the position of other state`s on Gen AI as well as modify its own framework to better adopt to emerging challenges and threats. By doing so, US and China are competing in their offensive and defensive military capabilities which poses risks and challenges for the region and specifically Pakistan vis-à-vis India. This research aims to follow an exploratory approach through literature review and case examples to carry a thorough analysis of Gen AI and its application in military field. The research will focus military application of Gen AI by the leading powers; US and China. Also, this research would also jot down the impacts of GenAI on the military policies of the nuclear rivals of South Asia in future.