AI & Machine Learning – From Experiments to Battlefield Deployment

Over the past decade, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) have evolved from research concepts to essential components of modern military strategy. The transition from experimental applications to battlefield deployment has been crucial for maintaining a strategic edge.

A Gradual Transition Rooted in Research and Collaboration

Military innovations traditionally follow a trajectory from laboratory experimentation to field deployment, and AI and ML are no exception. Research in pattern recognition, data analytics, and autonomous decision-making has laid the foundation for today's applications, ranging from real-time intelligence analysis to autonomous surveillance systems.

India's Defence Research and Development Organisation (DRDO) has been at the forefront of integrating AI into military systems, with the Indian Army being on the frontlines of this AI-revolution. Collaborative efforts between DRDO, the military and leading academic institutions have focused on developing algorithms to process data from satellites, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and ground sensors. While operational details remain classified, internal assessments suggest these technologies can significantly reduce the time between data acquisition and decision-making-a critical advantage in rapidly evolving battlefield scenarios.

Modernisation Through Measured Investment

India's commitment to defense modernisation is evident in its fiscal year 2025-26 defence budget, which stands at approximately INR 6.81 trillion, reflecting a 9.5% increase from the previous year. Notably, the allocation for DRDO has risen by 12.4%, reaching INR 26,817 crore, highlighting a strategic emphasis on advanced research and development, including AI and ML. While specific figures for AI and ML projects remain undisclosed, the consistent growth in research funding highlights India's prioritisation of these cutting-edge technologies.

Globally, nations like the United States have set clear precedents in this domain. The U.S. Department of Defense's (DOD) Project Maven, launched in 2017 with an initial budget reported to be around US $100 million, underscores the increasing focus on AI integration in military operations. While India's scale and investment strategies differ, its approach has been one of focused innovation, leveraging partnerships with technology institutes to adapt cutting-edge research for indigenous applications.

Enhancing Battlefield Capabilities

Integrating AI and ML into operational systems is poised to transform battlefield dynamics. Enhanced surveillance platforms now incorporate AI-driven data analysis to improve situational awareness, potentially reducing the time required for threat identification and response. Preliminary evaluations suggest AI-enabled systems can significantly improve decision-making speed and accuracy, making them a potential force multiplier on the battlefield.

Beyond real-time intelligence, AI-driven simulations are revolutionising military training. Modern training modules incorporate adaptive combat scenarios, allowing soldiers to refine their decision-making skills under pressure. This has led to measurable improvements in tactical readiness-a crucial factor given the complex terrains and diverse threats along India's borders. Another promising application is predictive maintenance, where machine learning models adapted from the aviation industry predict equipment failures before they occur, enhancing operational efficiency.

Balancing Innovation with Responsibility

Despite these promising developments, AI and ML integration presents significant challenges. The reliability of autonomous systems in contested environments, where adversaries may deploy electronic warfare (EW) tactics or cyberattacks, is a key concern. The Indian Army is acutely aware that technological advancements must be paired with robust cybersecurity measures and fail-safe protocols.

Ethical considerations also play a crucial role. AI-driven decision-support systems must enhance human judgment rather than replace it. Ensuring responsible AI deployment is critical to maintaining both operational effectiveness and ethical integrity.

The transition from experimental research to battlefield deployment of AI and ML is well underway. For the Indian Army, the strategic integration of these technologies promises enhanced situational awareness, improved training outcomes, and greater operational efficiency, all of which are essential in today's complex security environment.

As India continues to invest in AI-driven innovation while addressing cybersecurity and ethical challenges, the focus remains on equipping its forces with the best possible tools to safeguard national interests in an era of rapid technological change.

(Ashu Maan is an Associate Fellow at the Centre for Land Warfare Studies. He is currently pursuing his PhD in Defence and Strategic Studies at Amity University, Noida.)