Artifificial Intelligence Arms Race: Opportunities for ASEAN and Thailand’s Defence Capability

Abstract

This article is intended for 3 primary purposes: 1) to examine the competitiveness of the United States and China in the pursuit of global Artificial Intelligence (AI) whether it constitutes an arms race in accordance with the definition provided by Samuel Huntington; 2) to illustrate contemporary effects of the AI arms race on ASEAN military modernization; and 3) to analyze potential ways forward for Thai armed forces and defence industry in establishing AI capabilities. The study found that the competitive behaviour between the United States and China has constituted an AI arms race in accordance with Samuel Huntington’s definition of arms race. Both nations actively pursue to become a world’s leader in an AI related area, escalating mutual fears between each other as well as stimulating concerns globally. However, ASEAN nations, which geographically situate in the strategic arena of Asia Pacific, can benefit from the race. The rise of China and its expansion of influence within Southeast Asia provide an opportunity for ASEAN militaries to have access to affordable digital infrastructure as well as AI and AI-enabling technologies. The strategic partnership and alliance of the US in the region also bring in advanced technologies and assistance to the region. This study also identifies 4 necessary measures for the Thai military and defence industry sector to employ in the development of Thai defence AI capabilities. The first is to obtain essential knowledge base on AI through international relationship with the great powers. The second is to invest in defence digital infrastructure and set up necessary systems to support the implementation of AI into the services. The third is to start using AI in a tactical level, creating familiarization for tactical operators whilst lessening distrust between man and machine. The fourth is to investigate the human factor in a collaborative relationship between human and AI. These actions will help to accelerate the advancement of the forces and increase the defence industry’s capabilities to fulfill its domestic roles as well as to compete in the defence market.