India’s 2023 test of an AI-driven missile defense that intercepted a simulated hypersonic target surprised U.S. observers. They were intrigued by the ethical foundation guiding its design. Across South Asia, Artificial Intelligence is reshaping deterrence as India and Pakistan integrate autonomous strike systems.
Current arms control frameworks fail to reflect the region’s rivalries and asymmetric power relations. This shortfall weakens U.S. extended deterrence, leaving allies uneasy. Artificial Intelligence adoption in the region grows from colonial legacies and distrust of global powers, deepening volatility in strategic calculations.
India’s Civilian Oversight Model
India embeds civilian oversight in defense Artificial Intelligence research to ensure accountability. Its Responsible AI Certification Pilot requires algorithm explainability before approval. The national strategy demands ethical reviews and documentation of bias controls to prevent unintended escalation.
The Evaluating Trustworthy AI (ETAI) Framework enforces standards of reliability, security, transparency, fairness, and privacy. General Anil Chauhan emphasized resilience against cyber threats and adversarial interference. ETAI’s continuous validation methods protect operational stability and minimize risks of mission failure.
India’s “dual use by design” policy integrates safeguards early in system development. Civilian authorization channels keep human control over combat decisions. Independent red-team exercises test vulnerabilities, verifying that autonomous targeting remains secure under stress.
Enhancing Deterrence through Partnership
U.S.-India cooperation on AI verification supports extended deterrence by unifying standards and protocols. The iCET initiative, launched in 2023, promotes shared trials and secure data exchange. Joint benchmarks for anomaly detection and algorithm testing can build mutual trust.
A CSIS report urges a trilateral verification cell combining U.S. tools and India’s ethical oversight. Shared “AI Red Flag” alerts could prevent accidental escalations. Immutable digital logs would secure accountability for all autonomous actions.
The INDUS-X program integrates responsible Artificial Intelligence practices into defense projects. Scenario-based simulations with allies can test ethical principles during crises. The initiative’s expansion within the Quad alliance could pressure other states toward transparency and safe AI governance.
Toward Global AI Arms Control
A formal arms control dialogue should adopt India’s ethical AI standards. The UNIDIR study calls for bias audits and reporting systems to limit miscalculations. Carnegie researchers propose international certification for autonomous systems under existing weapons conventions.
The UN General Assembly’s new AI Scientific Panel reviews global risks and norms. It examines military Artificial Intelligence applications and offers recommendations to enhance confidence. Transparent procedures balanced with security can reduce mistrust among competing powers.
Regional Implementation and Future Outlook
India’s governance model sets an example for regional stability. Pakistan and China should engage in transparency programs to avoid AI capability gaps. Cooperation on detection algorithms and joint research can reduce tensions.
India’s hypersonic ET-LDHCM test highlights the urgency of effective frameworks before full autonomy in weapons. The Quad’s cooperation model may guide global norms on responsible AI deployment. Pre-deployment notifications and secure backchannels can further lower escalation risks.
As the UN General Assembly addresses AI governance, Washington can use India’s experience to shape global standards. Incorporating ETAI and iCET lessons into resolutions could set binding ethical rules. Responsible Artificial Intelligence development can reinforce deterrence and promote peace in the evolving security landscape.
