SINGAPORE: Lieutenant General Ahsan Gulrez, the Director-General of Joint Staff Headquarters has said that the growing significance of AI and cyber capabilities are essential components of national power. He warned that future conflicts are likely to be shaped by disruptive technologies, with cyber warfare and hybrid strategies exploiting vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure.
Lieutenant General Ahsan was speaking at the ‘IISS Shangri-La Dialogue 2024’. Top defense officials from around the world attended the summit in Singapore to discuss the evolving landscape of international security.
Among the key themes discussed were the transformative impacts of artificial intelligence (AI) and cyber capabilities on the future of warfare, as well as the strategic implications for global balance and deterrence.
Lieutenant General Ahsan Gulrez said that even smaller states and non-state actors are leveraging AI and cyber technologies to wield global influence, challenging traditional notions of military balance and deterrence. He warned that future wars are likely to be shaped by disruptive technologies, with cyber warfare and hybrid strategies exploiting vulnerabilities in critical infrastructure.
US Defense Secretary Lloyd James Austin reaffirmed America’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific region. “US is deeply committed to Indo-Pacific. We are all in. And we are not going anywhere.” He underscored the collaborative efforts between Indo-Pacific nations, citing achievements such as the joint development of a glide phase interceptor with Japan and significant strides in defense cooperation with India.
Austin also highlighted investments in submarine technology to bolster the AUKUS partnership with the UK and Australia.
Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun reiterated China’s willingness to collaborate with all parties to safeguard the legitimate security interests of all nations. “People’s Liberation Army (PLA) will take resolute actions to curb ‘Taiwan independence’ and ensure that such a plot never succeeds,” he warned.
The discussions at the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue also delved into the implications of AI and cyber technologies for defense establishments worldwide.