Robots and Artificial Intelligence in the Military

Abstract

The Fourth Industrial Revolution introduced numerous disruptive technologies that are changing human life faster than ever before. Right on its heel, the Fifth Industrial Revolution is introducing robotics using Artificial Intelligence aided by Machine Learning. While these are considered the future, the disruption caused by them is forcing changes in how we operate and perceive things. One such area is the ‘military’. Though Artificial Intelligence and robotics are being experimented with as a replacement for humans to de-risk their lives, they are found to be advantageous to reduce the cost of training, rations, supply and maintenance of personnel. They are thus receiving increasing investments for development and deployment. This in return is altering how warfighting is perceived and conducted. To ensure a smooth progression of humans with the numerous technological developments being made in the field of Artificial Intelligence, the article looks at the advances made in these fields for military applications that are improving their sustainability and control, the world over. In addition, to assist decision-makers, a broad-based roadmap for the use of Artificial Intelligence in the military is discussed.

Keywords

• robots; disruptive technology; industry 4.0; military