In the Race for Algorithmic Sovereignty: China Unveils its Military 'Crown Jewel' AI

The Chinese state-owned defense industry giant NORINCO (North Industries Group) unveiled a military vehicle in February capable of conducting combat support operations using Artificial Intelligence with minimal human intervention, reaching speeds of 50 kilometers per hour.

This vehicle (P60) relies on technology from the company DeepSeek, whose AI model represents the "Crown Jewel" of China's technology sector. Communist Party officials celebrated the release of the autonomous P60 vehicle, stating it is an early example of how Beijing is utilizing DeepSeek and AI to catch up in the arms race with the United States.

Systematic Efforts to Achieve Military Supremacy

• Systematic Research: A Reuters review of hundreds of research papers, patents, and procurement records provides a glimpse into Beijing's systematic efforts to leverage AI for military advantage.

• Emerging Capabilities: Records indicate Beijing's progress towards capabilities matching US efforts, such as autonomous target recognition and instantaneous decision-making support on the battlefield.

• Reliance on Foreign and Domestic Chips:

  • The Chinese military (PLA) and its affiliates continue to use and seek chips manufactured by Nvidia, including models subject to US export controls. (It could not be determined if these chips were obtained before the restrictions were imposed).

  • Conversely, a growing shift is evident: in 2025, the PLA increased cooperation with contractors who exclusively claim to use locally-made hardware, such as Huawei's AI chips, coinciding with Beijing's public campaign pressuring local companies to utilize Chinese-made technology.

Algorithmic Sovereignty is the Goal

The PLA's embrace of DeepSeek technology reflects Beijing's pursuit of what it calls "Algorithmic Sovereignty"—reducing reliance on Western technology while strengthening control over critical digital infrastructure.

Documents show that China is looking to develop AI-powered robotic dogs conducting reconnaissance in packs, as well as drone swarms that track targets autonomously.