The Global AI Arms Race

Countries, Capabilities And Deployments

The global competition in artificial intelligence weaponry has evolved into a complex, multi-polar race involving not only traditional military superpowers but also emerging technological nations, regional powers, and increasingly sophisticated non-state actors.

This book provides a comprehensive analysis of the key participants, their known capabilities, deployment status, and strategic approaches to AI-enabled warfare. It is important to note that much of the most advanced AI weapons development occurs under strict classification, meaning that public knowledge represents only a portion of actual capabilities.

The AI arms race differs fundamentally from previous military competitions in its technological complexity, rapid pace of development, and the blurred lines between civilian and military applications. Unlike nuclear weapons, which required massive industrial infrastructure and rare materials, AI weapons can be developed using commercially available components and software, lowering barriers to entry while simultaneously making capabilities harder to monitor and control.