Chinese and Russian Military Artificial Intelligence: Drivers of National Goals

This monograph examines the transformative role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in modern warfare and its integration into military frameworks to meet national objectives. Military AI developments and their alignment with national goals are clearly visible in the global competitions and conflicts. A case study analysis of China and Russia indicates employment of AI to target specific adversarial vulnerabilities with improved focus on operational mass and increased operational effectiveness. These developmental and deployment lessons provide appropriate 'Use Cases' for the Indian Army's military AI development. By analysing the AI strategies of Russia and China, the monograph offers relevant lessons for India, given almost similar challenges in terms of diverse populations, composite terrain, and strategic priorities. This paper underscores the importance of aligning AI development with national security goals to maintain strategic dominance and safeguard interests. The monograph concludes by emphasising that, as AI continues to reshape warfare, India must tailor its AI strategies to align with the broader National AI Mission, ensuring that its military capabilities are enhanced in a way that secures national interests and asserts influence in an increasingly complex global landscape.