AI and automation key to future battlefields, says Army chief

Indian Army Chief General Upendra Dwivedi stated that Artificial Intelligence (AI) is becoming indispensable in modern warfare, particularly for faster decision-making and managing the complexity of military operations. Speaking after reviewing the Passing Out Parade of the 150th Course at the National Defence Academy (NDA) in Pune on May 30, 2026, he noted that contemporary battlefields generate vast amounts of data, requiring AI-driven systems to optimize resource allocation and operational efficiency. General Dwivedi explained that the rapid pace of modern warfare demands quick processing of information and timely decisions in highly dynamic situations. He referenced the OODA cycle—Observe, Orient, Decide, and Act—stating that overlapping cycles necessitate AI support to enhance decision-making speed. He specifically mentioned Small Language Models (SLMs) and Large Language Models (LLMs) as tools to streamline information processing and resource application. The Army Chief also underscored the growing role of drones in military operations, emphasizing the need for both offensive and defensive capabilities to counter emerging aerial threats. He noted that the increasing deployment of drones, surveillance platforms, and sensors has expanded battlefield resource complexity, making automation and AI essential for effective management. General Dwivedi concluded that handling such a vast and dynamic ecosystem requires advanced technological integration, with AI playing a pivotal role in future military preparedness.