India working on unmanned-tanks, vessels, robotic weaponry for future wars
What's the story
In an ambitious defense project, the Indian government has started work on incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) to enhance the operational preparedness of all the three armed forces.
"Unmanned aerial vehicles, naval vessels, tanks and automatic robotic rifles will have an extensive use in future wars," an official said.
The move is part of a broader policy initiative to prepare three forces for next-generation warfare.
Information
High-powered task force was finalizing the framework of project
Secretary Defense Production Ajay Kumar said, a high-powered task force headed by Tata Sons Chairman N Chandrasekaran was finalizing the specifics and framework of the project, which would be implemented in a "partnership model" between the armed forces and the private sector.
Help in surveillance
AI could ease pressure on armed-forces guarding China, Pakistan borders
"It is India's preparation for next-generation warfare. We need to prepare ourselves for the next generation warfare which will be more and more technology driven, more and more automated and robotized," said Kumar.
Military sources said the application of AI in the surveillance of India's borders with China and Pakistan could significantly ease the pressure on armed forces personnel guarding the sensitive frontiers.
Investment
China is investing billions-of-dollars in AI research, machine learning
China has been pouring in billions of dollars into AI research and machine learning. Last year, it unveiled an ambitious plan to make the country the AI innovation center of the world by 2030.
The US, Britain, France, and the European Union are also investing significantly in AI, an area of computer science devoted to the creation of intelligent machines.
AI use in defense
Major countries are finding ways to implement AI in forces
"Major countries of the world are now working on strategies to see how AI can be used for defense forces. We are also moving ahead. What is unique about this initiative is that we have industry and defense forces working jointly," Kumar said.
He said the recommendations of the task force were likely to come in by June.
Strong IT industry
India's biggest strength: A strong IT industry base
"India has a fairly strong IT industry base and that is going to be our biggest strength in terms of developing AI capabilities," said Kumar, who has been playing a key role in pushing forward the project.
Kumar said a framework was being finalized under which industry and defense forces could work together to create a strong base for AI in defense systems.