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‘Smart’ warfare and China–U.S. stability: strengths, myths, and risks

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Abstract

Both the U.S. and China are experiencing military transformation and modernization, a process through which their militaries are becoming increasingly reliant on artificial intelligence and associated technologies. Expecting an intelligence revolution in military affairs, both militaries look forward to increasing effectiveness and efficiency in intelligence, command and control, logistics, and weapon systems. Yet beneath the high promises of new technology, the strengths and weaknesses of such advances create substantial obstacles to achieving military stability between the two nations. This paper discusses the oft-neglected, multi-layered turbulence created at the intersection of technology and strategy that lies behind the current military transformation. Looking into the future, China and the U.S. need to voice concerns about the transformation’s impact on current and future conflict dynamics and take the necessary steps to enhance operational and strategic stability in an increasingly AI-integrated military arena.

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Notes

  1. Informatization refers to military employment of information technology in military affairs. Intelligentization emphasizes the incorporation of artificial intelligence into the military capabilities.

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  1. School of International Relations, Peking University, No. 5, Yiheyuan Road, Beijing, 100871, China

    Haotian Qi

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Qi, H. ‘Smart’ warfare and China–U.S. stability: strengths, myths, and risks. China Int Strategy Rev. 3, 278–299 (2021). https://doi.org/10.1007/s42533-021-00094-8

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