SINGAPORE: In his message marking this year’s Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) Day on Jul 1, Defence Minister Chan Chun Sing paid homage to the extraordinary dedication of SAF servicemen and women that underpins the safety and security enjoyed by Singaporeans every day.

He also pointed out that Singapore's success ultimately rests on the resolve of all Singaporeans to safeguard what previous generations have built.

This emphasis on the human elements of national defence comes as artificial intelligence shapes warfare development around the world.

FUTURE WARS TAKING SHAPE

Starting from a foundational level, AI has been used by for intelligence analysis and operational planning. The Israeli military reportedly used machine learning systems to process data and recommend targets for strikes in its operations in Gaza.

Meanwhile, the US used large language models in its military operation against Iran to prioritise targets and plan strikes amid a fluid and dynamic combat environment.

The use of drones or unmanned combat systems has also become a key characteristic of modern wars, as displayed by both Ukrainian and Russian forces, and by Iran against the US and its allies in the region.

But drone technology is not standing still. Experts expect drones to be equipped with ever more sophisticated autonomous guidance systems driven by AI that will enable them to search wide swathes of the battlefield, identify and subsequently attack targets on their own.

AI also plays a critical role in cyber warfare and information operations. It can turbocharge online attacks and the creation of fake content, accounts and bot networks to spread disinformation and deepen divisions.

Finally, AI can be deployed to more administrative or back-end tasks required to keep large militaries running smoothly, for example in human resources or finance planning, logistics operations and procurement processes.

HUMANS REMAIN AT THE CORE

These developments raise questions about whether AI will threaten human roles in the military. But there is much to suggest that the human element will remain crucial for the foreseeable future.

Minister Chan said at a Jun 24 dialogue...