However, achieving high accuracy with these weapons has been challenging. It requires significant real-time data, which can be demanding for the computing system using traditional mathematical models. Not to mention that various flight variables, including wind, temperature, and air pressure, among many others, can limit the precision of an artillery shell. These factors can impact its trajectory, causing it to miss its target by a few or even tens of meters. Thus, according to Jiang and his team, these issues would be reduced, if not eliminated, by integrating AI.
AI vs. Traditional Mathematical Model
One of the main differences between AI and traditional mathematical approaches in computing is that the former makes decisions based on machine learning algorithms, while the latter relies on mathematical equations and formulas.
An AI model offers precision-guided artillery a far more flexible and adaptable feature capable of processing data faster, delivering more reliable predictions, especially in difficult situations, than using a traditional mathematical approach.
As a smart shell needs to quickly collect, analyze, and come up with a decision in real-time, all under a restricted minute, its computer chip must have all the necessary features to keep up with the demand. In addition to the extreme heat and shock of artillery fire, it has to endure. With this, engineers often remove valuable raw data to keep up with time pressure, which can have a negative impact on the overall accuracy of the munition when using a traditional mathematical model.
AI-powered long-range artillery helps China aim its big guns against Taiwan
China's military has adopted AI to improve the lethal accuracy of long-range artillery and potentially reduce the cost of warfare. This will facilitate China to train its big guns against Taiwan. pic.twitter.com/ZahO5hZpbb
— Spotlight on China (@spotlightoncn) April 24, 2023
This, however, is not the case for AI-powered computer chips, as they can easily accomplish the necessary calculations using all available data collected in real-time flights or laboratory experiments, subsequently bypassing the demanding processes.
The Chinese-based researchers added that AI models could provide more advanced trajectory adjustments mid-flights through its machine learning algorithm, improving strike accuracy.
Can Potentially Be Used Against Taiwan
Many experts consider fine-tuning the accuracy of artillery fire unnecessary. Nevertheless remains a subject of debate. For one, the munition relies on heavy shell blasts, which alone can already inflict damage on targets standing at least a hundred meters away—although not everyone shares this view. The PLA, for example, reportedly considers high-precision lethal projectiles very useful, particularly in an attack on Taiwan.
According to an anonymous defense industry engineer based in Beijing, AI-powered artillery could efficiently destroy enemy units or vehicles concealed “in buildings with more efficiency than traditional firepower, and at a lower cost than missiles” in urban warfare scenarios.
“It will help reduce civilian casualties and damage to surrounding buildings. It will make reunification and reconstruction after the war easier,” he told the South China Morning Post.
The research and evaluation on the AI-powered laser-guided artillery arrived amid the ongoing tensions between Taiwan and China, which many have speculated the latter might use in a potential future invasion.
In recent months, Beijing hasn’t shied away from reiterating the importance of bolstering its precision strike capabilities, stressing that it would become a vital weapon in shutting down the Strait’s command and control.
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Check out Artificial Intelligence and the Future of Warfare: The USA, China, and strategic stability by James Johnson here and gain a groundbreaking insight into the AI arms race between the US and China, what the future of military technology holds, and its impact on global security.
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