China’s military is exploring how artificial intelligence could reshape everything from psychological warfare to battlefield targeting, according to a report analyzing thousands of procurement documents from the People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
The Georgetown University analysis, based on more than 9,000 procurement requests released between 2023 and 2024, shows the PLA seeking AI systems capable of tracking individuals, vehicles, and digital activity to harden military installations and boost security.
Researchers say the PLA also sees AI-assisted decision tools as a way to compensate for perceived weaknesses in its officer corps, which has limited combat experience compared with Western militaries.
Procurement requests reveal a focus on “cognitive domain operations,” including AI-generated deepfakes, sentiment analysis, and systems designed to probe adversary vulnerabilities.
According to the researchers, Chinese military planners see AI-generated images, audio, and video as potential tools for shaping public opinion and influencing adversaries’ perceptions during conflicts.
Beyond information operations, AI-enabled targeting systems could fuse data from satellites, drones, and other sensors to pinpoint threats and guide precision strikes.
The authors warn that China’s growing reliance on AI across surveillance, targeting, and influence operations could create real strategic advantages.
“The PLA is actively pursuing AI-related technologies for a broad range of C5ISRT applications across all domains,” the authors wrote.
Researchers urge US policymakers to scale counter-surveillance measures, prepare for AI-assisted decision systems, and counter AI-enabled disinformation such as deepfakes.
They also recommend maintaining export controls on advanced semiconductors while keeping a close eye on China’s military AI development.
