The Indian Army is undergoing a transformative shift by integrating Artificial Intelligence (AI) into its operational framework, significantly enhancing its Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. This adoption of AI-driven technologies is reshaping modern warfare and providing India with a strategic edge in defence operation.

AI-Driven ISR Capabilities

AI-powered systems are revolutionising surveillance and threat detection along sensitive borders like the Line of Control (LoC) and Line of Actual Control (LAC). These systems enable real-time intelligence gathering through drones, satellites, and multi-sensor data fusion technology. They provide early warnings, detect intrusions, classify targets, and consolidate diverse data streams into actionable insights for commanders. This proactive approach allows rapid decision-making and improves situational awareness in challenging terrains.

Operational Enhancements

AI applications extend beyond ISR to include predictive analytics for operational forecasting and strategic planning. By analysing historical and real-time data, AI systems predict potential threats and identify adversarial operational gaps. Autonomous systems such as swarm drones are capable of precision strikes and coordinated missions, reducing risks to personnel while enhancing tactical superiority in multi-domain operations.

Institutional Developments

To Advance AI Integration In Defence

In 2018, the Ministry of Defence established a task force to explore AI applications. This led to the creation of the Defence AI Project Agency (DAIPA) and Defence AI Council (DAIC) in 2019 for policy oversight and operational execution.

The Military College of Telecommunication Engineering (MCTE) has become an AI research hub, developing tools like the Situational Awareness Module for the Army (SAMA) and satellite imagery analysis software.

The Indian Army has established cells at the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi (IIT-D), IIT Kanpur, and the Indian Institute of Science (IISc) Bangalore, and some of the notable contributions have taken place in areas such as AI, Robotics and Electric Vehicles (EVs).

The Indian Army has set up an AI Incubation Centre (IAAIIC) to promote innovation, indigenous capacity building, and talent development in AI domains.

Collaborations And Innovations

India is collaborating internationally, notably with the United States under the Advanced Domains Defence Dialogue, focusing on emerging technologies like AI. Domestically, partnerships with institutions such as IIT Delhi, IIT Kanpur, and IISc Bengaluru are fostering advancements in robotics, electric vehicles (EVs), and AI-driven defence solutions.

Applications Across Domains

AI is being utilised across various military functions:

Cybersecurity: AI-enhanced systems counter cyber threats like state-sponsored hacking or deepfake attacks.

Battlefield Simulations: AI-driven simulations create realistic combat scenarios for personnel training.

Logistics: AI optimises supply chain management to improve efficiency.

Command Systems: Integrated situational awareness platforms aid decision-making during high-pressure operations.

AI Driven Simulations

The Indian Army is leveraging AI-driven simulations to create realistic battlefield scenarios for personnel training, enhancing readiness for unpredictable combat environments. This integration of AI in military training is multifaceted:

Realistic Training Environments: AI-driven simulations provide highly detailed and immersive training environments. These simulations can include realistic scenarios, adaptive opponents, and data analysis to identify areas needing additional training. This enhances combat readiness by allowing soldiers to practice in scenarios that mimic real-world conditions.

Metaverse Training: The Indian Army is also exploring Metaverse-enabled wargaming through the Wargame Research and Development Centre (WARDEC). This involves using Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) to simulate real-time battlefield conditions, allowing soldiers to test strategies and develop skills in a highly realistic environment.

Adaptive Learning: AI algorithms can dynamically adjust simulation parameters such as weather, terrain, and enemy behaviour to create varied and unpredictable training scenarios. This helps soldiers adapt to diverse environments and enhances their decision-making abilities.

Collaborative Training: AI-powered simulation platforms facilitate collaborative exercises involving multiple military units, improving teamwork and interoperability across different terrains and operations.

Ethical Considerations: While AI enhances military capabilities, it also raises ethical concerns regarding accountability and the use of autonomous systems in warfare.

Future Prospects

The Indian Army is actively exploring advanced technologies such as machine learning (ML), robotics, hypersonic technology, 5G/6G communications, and quantum computing. Specialised units like the Signals Technology Evaluation and Adaptation Group (STEAG) are tasked with evaluating these technologies for defence applications. Predictive AI tools are expected to further revolutionise strategic planning by analysing geopolitical trends and historical conflict data.

India's integration of AI into defence operations represents a paradigm shift that enhances operational efficiency while positioning the nation as a global leader in military innovation.

IDN