The Future of India’s Military: Unmanned Combat Systems and the Ethical Dilemma

India is currently embracing a transformative phase in its military strategy by integrating unmanned combat systems, a move echoed by various branches of its armed forces. The Indian Army has already commenced the induction of “swarm drones” into its mechanized forces, while Admiral R Hari Kumar, the Chief of Naval Staff, has underscored the essential role of autonomous systems in preparing the Indian Navy for future challenges. This shift not only emphasizes technological advancement but also raises profound questions about the ethics and legal frameworks surrounding the use of artificial intelligence in warfare.

The Navy’s Strategic Vision

Admiral Kumar’s comments during the recent Navy Day press conference highlighted the Navy’s initiatives aimed at enhancing operational capability in a rapidly changing global security landscape. The procurement of armed drones is poised to play a pivotal role in this strategy, especially against the backdrop of heightened vigilance regarding Chinese naval activities in the Indian Ocean Region. These military drones are perceived as instrumental assets for the Navy to navigate the escalating security complexities in India’s maritime environment.

Expanding Surveillance Capabilities

A key driver behind India’s push for unmanned systems is the need for expanded surveillance capabilities in its near-seas. After leasing MQ-9B Sea Guardian drones from the U.S., the Indian Navy released an unclassified version of its “unmanned roadmap” which outlines plans for incorporating remote autonomous platforms, including undersea vehicles. This focus on underwater domain awareness is becoming increasingly crucial, especially after observed shifts in China’s strategic posture in the Indian Ocean. Reports of Chinese drones operating near Indonesian waters highlight the pressing need for India to bolster its maritime surveillance and deterrence capabilities.

The Shift in Military Mindset

Traditionally, India’s military establishment has viewed underwater drones primarily as tools for exploration rather than combat. Tasks such as mine detection and ship survey have been their forte. However, there is a noticeable evolution in thinking; Indian analysts now recognize the combat potential of underwater autonomous platforms, powered by advancements in artificial intelligence (AI). The implications of the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) are underscoring the anticipated transformation in naval warfare.

Ethical Concerns in Autonomous Warfare

While the promise of AI in warfare is captivating, it also invites significant ethical questions. The deployment of intelligent machines in combat scenarios introduces a paradox: as AI capabilities enhance lethality, they simultaneously complicate accountability and control. The reliance on algorithms, especially those sourced from external entities, raises concerns about operational integrity. The intertwined nature of military networks means that errors or biases in AI systems could trigger unintended consequences in combat.

The Challenges of Decision-Making

AI technologies face inherent challenges, particularly when it comes to data biases and the inconsistency of probabilistic decision-making. Critics argue that entrusting life-and-death decisions to algorithms—without human judgment—risks catastrophic mistakes. A machine’s inability to contextualize conflict may lead to decisions that violate the fundamental tenets of warfare, such as the principles of necessity and proportionality.

The Doctrine Dilemma

Integrating AI into military doctrine poses another layer of complexity. Much of current military thinking is built on conventional conflict frameworks and may struggle to accommodate the nuances of AI-driven warfare. The successful deployment of armed drones in the Ukraine conflict and other regions suggests urgency in adapting military doctrine, but doing so presents formidable challenges. Military leaders are aware that the criteria for justifying the use of force traditionally rests on well-defined ethical and legal parameters.

Legal Questions Surrounding Autonomous Platforms

The introduction of unmanned maritime systems doesn’t just complicate operational protocols; it raises intricate legal questions. It remains uncertain whether these systems can be classified as “ships” under international law or even recognized as warships. The ambiguity surrounding their legal status creates a minefield of potential repercussions. For example, if an Indian drone engaged a Chinese vessel outside territorial waters, it may not be illegal, but the ethical implications would be profound and could ignite escalatory responses.

Limitations and Future Directions

The Indian Navy faces notable capacity limitations in developing AI technologies for combat. While advancements have been made in certain areas, there remains a significant gap in key technological domains necessary for effective integration. As of now, India is concentrating on using AI in noncombat scenarios—like logistics and training—before taking on the more perilous task of incorporating AI into combat systems. A cautious, incremental approach seems to be the prevailing wisdom, prioritizing safety and accountability.

Balancing Effectiveness with Ethics

As India forges ahead with AI in military applications, it must grapple with not just effectiveness but also ethical considerations. The deployment of unmanned systems in the maritime realm is fraught with potential risks and moral dilemmas. Therefore, India’s naval leadership faces the dual challenge of leveraging technology for strategic advantage while adhering to the core principles that govern warfare. Balancing military innovation with ethical integrity will be crucial as the landscape of conflict continues to evolve in this new age of warfare.