Xi Jinping’s Vision for AI and Unmanned Tech in Military Capabilities
During China’s recent top legislative meetings, Chinese leader Xi Jinping emphasized the development of “new quality combat capabilities” for the military. Analysts believe this focus on artificial intelligence, high-tech, and intelligent warfare could pave the way for advancements in unmanned ships and submarines to support military operations.
Speaking at a gathering of PLA and Armed Police Force delegates to the National People’s Congress, Xi urged the military to deepen reforms and promote innovation to enhance strategic capabilities in emerging areas. This includes the application of AI, defense capabilities in cyberspace, and the use of unmanned combat technologies.
Chung Chieh from the National Policy Foundation in Taipei suggests that Xi’s emphasis on “new quality combat capabilities” indicates a shift towards intelligent combat capabilities. By leveraging AI, militaries aim to accelerate combat processes, streamline tasks such as target identification and strikes, and enable simultaneous control of multiple unmanned vehicles.
According to a report in the PLA Daily, lawmakers highlighted the importance of technology as a core capability to bolster China’s strategic power. The development of drone swarm technologies and advancements in AI, big data, and the Internet of Things are seen as crucial for future warfare.
Ying-Yu Lin, an assistant professor at Tamkang University, notes that while the concept of new quality combat capabilities is rooted in technological advancements, it poses challenges in terms of implementation and talent recruitment. The shift towards high-tech warfare requires a departure from traditional military training methods and the recruitment of specialized professionals.
Xi also underscored the need to prepare for maritime military conflicts and enhance maritime strategic capabilities. Analysts suggest that Beijing’s ambitions to become a sea-power country and control sea communication lines are reflected in Xi’s remarks.
As China navigates the complexities of modern warfare and technological advancements, the integration of AI and unmanned technologies is set to play a pivotal role in shaping the military’s capabilities and strategic outlook.
