by Anviksha Pachori and Abhishek Bhati
Abstract: India has progressively integrated emerging technologies, particularly artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous weapon systems (AWS), and robotics into its military modernization agenda. Given India’s security needs and cross-border infiltration, a substantial number of investments in these areas reflects a strategic shift, enhancing operational effectiveness while minimizing human risk during combat. India’s official stance further emphasizes a commitment to align conventional war-fighting strategies with digital technologies, signalling the inclusion of autonomous systems in future operational planning. The paper analyses current military doctrine envisioning a broad spectrum of AWS applications, participation in global forums delving into key themes of accountability, human control, and transparency, highlighting India’s policy gaps and strategic choices.
Keywords: Autonomous weapon systems, artificial intelligence, armed forces, India, military
