The AI Arms Race: A Deadly Rivalry Between the USA and China

Sakshi Raheja Last Updated : 16 Apr, 2023
3 min read

Artificial intelligence (AI) has recently been a hot topic among academics, policymakers, and business titans. There is rising concern that we could be on the verge of an artificial arms race between the US and China due to the development of sophisticated AI models like ChatGPT and the usage of AI in military weaponry. Let’s investigate this matter in greater detail.

Also Read: AI “Could Be” Dangerous – Joe Biden

A Reason for Concern: AI Weapons

AI weapons have developed into a key source of concern as the globe deals with escalating technological breakthroughs. These weapons are particularly frightening since they have the capability to unleash mass destruction without human participation. These weapons endanger human life and undermine international stability and national security.

US-China Arms Race in AI

AI Arms Race between US and China

Source: Global Times

According to NBC News, concerns about a potential AI arms race between the US and China have grown due to the creation of ChatGPT. Elon Musk co-founded OpenAI, a research organization that created this cutting-edge linguistic model. ChatGPT is a potent communication tool because it can produce text responses resembling human speech.

Tech Giants Enter the AI Race

Many US and Chinese IT behemoths have entered the AI space after ChatGPT’s development. This includes, among others, businesses like Google, Microsoft, Alibaba, and Baidu. Other industries, like healthcare, finance, and transportation, are also being prioritized in developing artificial intelligence, in addition to military uses.

Also Read: Alibaba and Huawei’s Announce Debut of Their Chatbots: The Rise of Generative AI Chatbots in China

Self-Healing Landmines: A Revolutionary Innovation

Geoffrey Hinton, the founder of artificial intelligence, has claimed that the US is working on self-healing landmines. Landmines would become even deadlier thanks to this technology’s rebuilding ability after detonating. This invention presents ethical questions even though it may appear to develop military technology substantially.

AI Regulatory Framework in China

China moving forward against the US in AI technology and the arms race.

China has already developed the first iteration of appropriate legislation to govern such businesses and models, whereas the US is still working on building one. According to New America research, China’s regulatory framework for AI reportedly includes principles for data protection, ethics, and national security. Due to this approach, China may have an advantage in the battle to create and control AI technology.

Also Read: China Takes Bold Step to Regulate Generative AI Services

The Fear Index

The threat posed by the development of AI weapons increases as they become more sophisticated. According to The Guardian, when artificially intelligent weapons enter the arms race, America experiences extreme fear. Understandably, the public and governments are concerned about this technology, given its potential for widespread destruction and harm to human life.

The fear of AI weapons | AI Arms Race between US and China

Our Say

In conclusion, there are now worries that the US and China may start an artificial arms race due to the development of weaponry and its usage in military applications. China has taken the lead in regulating these cutting-edge models while the US is still formulating its AI strategy. It’s critical to weigh the advantages and potential drawbacks of technical breakthroughs as they progress and to work towards developing morally sound regulations for their creation and application.

I am a passionate writer and avid reader who finds joy in weaving stories through the lens of data analytics and visualization. With a knack for blending creativity with numbers, I transform complex datasets into compelling narratives. Whether it's writing insightful blogs or crafting visual stories from data, I navigate both worlds with ease and enthusiasm. 

A lover of both chai and coffee, I believe the right brew sparks creativity and sharpens focus—fueling my journey in the ever-evolving field of analytics. For me, every dataset holds a story, and I am always on a quest to uncover it.

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