Future wars will be won by the force that can sense, decide, and adapt faster: Expert panel

The next generation of warfare will hinge on how swiftly a military can sense, comprehend, decide, and adapt, according to experts convened by the Synergia Foundation. Advancements in electronic warfare, artificial intelligence, quantum sensing, autonomous systems, advanced sensors, and space-based technologies are fundamentally altering the battlefield, prompting a discussion on India's future military preparedness.

Senior government officials, military veterans, and industry leaders participated in the roundtable, identifying a "post-platform era" where the strategic value lies in the intelligence derived from sensors, data, algorithms, and connectivity. The ability to rapidly transform signals into insights and insights into action has become a critical component of combat power.

AI is transforming electronic warfare, enabling continuous learning, pattern recognition, and faster decision support. However, the panel emphasized the need for robust data integrity, testing, validation, and human oversight, especially as algorithms become integral to defense decision-making. Quantum sensing and advanced sensors are emerging as significant areas of exploration, with potential to detect minute changes in magnetic and electric fields and enhance navigation capabilities.

Miniaturisation is also gaining importance, enabling greater mobility, survivability, and scalability of sensors and electronic systems across diverse platforms and environments. The discussion underscored the shift from individual platforms to the seamless integration of sensors, data, software, and decision-making capabilities.