Expert Explains How AI and Autonomy are Transforming Global Warfare

Artificial intelligence, military autonomy and algorithmic warfare are rapidly transforming modern combat, creating new challenges for countries seeking to maintain credible defence and deterrence capabilities. The growing combination of these three technologies is changing how military operations are planned and executed, with AI increasingly integrated into battlefield workflows and autonomous systems taking on a larger role. Algorithmic precision is expected to make these capabilities significantly more effective and lethal in the coming years.

Recent conflicts and military developments from Iran to Venezuela have demonstrated how quickly technology is reshaping warfare. Modern armed forces are increasingly relying on software-driven systems to process information, identify threats and support decisions at speeds that traditional command structures may struggle to match. The shift suggests that future military advantage could depend as much on algorithms, computing power and autonomous platforms as on conventional weapons and troop strength.

For India, the changing nature of warfare presents what experts describe as a potential “Manhattan Project” moment in combat technology. The comparison reflects the scale and urgency of the transformation, particularly as military software is deployed at unprecedented speed and scale. India’s strategic and military establishment may need to accelerate its understanding and adoption of AI-driven capabilities to avoid falling behind countries investing heavily in autonomous defence technologies.

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The transformation is already visible in advanced military programmes such as the Collaborative Combat Aircraft initiative, under which autonomous aircraft are being developed to operate alongside crewed fighter jets. Anduril’s YFQ-44A, which began flight testing in October 2025, represents the growing role of software-enabled autonomous systems in future air combat. Such platforms could support surveillance, targeting and combat missions while reducing risks to human pilots.

However, adopting foreign technology alone may not be enough to secure India’s long-term military interests. Experts argue that the country needs sovereign pathways for developing AI, autonomous platforms and military algorithms. Domestic control over critical software, data and decision-making systems would be essential to reduce dependence on external suppliers and ensure that technologies can be adapted to India’s specific strategic and operational requirements.

As warfare becomes increasingly shaped by software and autonomous decision-making, India faces pressure to modernise its defence ecosystem at a faster pace. Building expertise across the military, technology sector and research institutions could be crucial to keeping pace with global developments. The ability to combine AI, autonomy and algorithmic precision through secure domestic capabilities may ultimately determine how effectively India responds to the next generation of military threats.

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