AI In Warfare: Advantages & Risks Associated

Context (IE): The global military landscape is undergoing a profound transformation with the emergence of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-driven warfare, often referred to as “agentic warfare.”

What is AI-led/Agentic Warfare?

Agentic warfare refers to the use of AI agents-intelligent, autonomous systems capable of performing a wide range of military functions such as surveillance, targeting, logistical planning, electronic warfare, and decision-making with minimal or no human intervention.

Autonomous Weapon Systems: Capable of identifying and engaging targets independently.
C4ISR Integration: Fusion of command, control, communication, computers, intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (C4ISR) with AI systems.
Real-time Data Analysis: Predictive analytics and decision support powered by AI.
Cyber and Electromagnetic Warfare: Cognitive systems capable of disrupting enemy communication and navigation through AI-driven signals intelligence.

Israel: Israel’s use of the Lavender AI system in Gaza reportedly identified 37,000 Hamas targets, marking what some analysts call the world’s first “AI war”.
Pakistan: China is actively supporting Pakistan’s Centre of Artificial Intelligence and Computing, which now runs a sophisticated Cognitive Electronic Warfare program using AI and machine learning.
China: China is integrating AI into its defence through a phased approach. Example: Generative AI-driven drone swarms that autonomously locate and jam enemy radars.

Speed and Precision: AI enables rapid data analysis and decision-making, reducing response time in dynamic combat scenarios.
Force Multiplication: Smaller military units can achieve larger objectives by leveraging AI-driven systems, such as drones and robotics.
Reduced Human Risk: Autonomous platforms operate in high-risk zones, minimising casualties.
Enhanced Surveillance & Reconnaissance: AI systems integrate data from satellites and UAVs to track enemy activity, detect emerging patterns, and provide real-time situational awareness.
Data-Driven Strategy: AI enhances mission planning by analysing intelligence and optimising logistics in real time.
Improved Logistics and Maintenance: AI helps predict equipment failures, automates supply chain decisions, and manages fuel and ammunition more efficiently, thereby boosting operational readiness.

Loss of Human Control: Reduced oversight in autonomous systems may lead to accidental escalation or unintended attacks.
Ethical and Legal Dilemmas: AI-led strikes raise accountability issues and challenge existing laws of armed conflict.
Cyber Vulnerabilities: AI systems are susceptible to hacking, manipulation, and data poisoning, posing a threat to mission integrity.
Algorithmic Bias: AI systems trained on flawed or limited data may misidentify threats or disproportionately target specific groups, resulting in unintended harm or discrimination.
‘Black Box’ Problem: AI decisions are often difficult to explain. Military personnel may not fully understand why an AI acted in a certain way, making it hard to audit or correct errors.
AI Arms Race: The development of AI-driven warfare triggers an arms race among nations to develop autonomous weapons, thereby increasing global instability and reducing the chances of disarmament or cooperation.

Responsible AI Use: While agentic AI holds transformative potential, its integration into warfare must be guided by ethical, legal, and strategic frameworks that ensure its responsible use.
Capacity building: India should focus on developing indigenous AI capabilities, invest in cyber-resilient infrastructure, and promote international cooperation on AI arms regulation.
A balanced approach that ensures human oversight, safeguards data integrity, and prioritises accountability will be key to leveraging AI’s advantages while mitigating its risks.