In a recent RDO interview, Sheena Rani, a leading defense technology specialist, offered her perspective on the rapidly evolving dynamics of military innovation. From hypersonic weapons to artificial intelligence (AI), her presentation highlighted how emerging technologies are changing the face of modern warfare.
Key Takeaways from Sheena Rani Discussion
1. Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Autonomous Systems
Sheena pointed out that AI is transforming warfare, allowing for quicker decision-making and greater accuracy in battlefields. Autonomous drones, AI-based surveillance, and unmanned combat vehicles are becoming the norm in defense. But she also sounded the alarm about ethical concerns, including the risk of completely autonomous weapons.
Checkout the Bharat Ratna 2025 Winners
2. Hypersonic Weapons and Missile Defense
The research on hypersonic missiles, which can travel at speeds higher than Mach 5, was a highlight of the event. Sheena clarified that such weapons could make conventional missile defense systems obsolete and compel countries to spend on next-generation countermeasures.
3. Cyber Warfare and Electronic Dominance
As more and more reliance is placed on digital infrastructure, cyber warfare has emerged as a vital front. Sheena spoke about developments in electronic warfare (EW) and how militaries are creating offensive and defensive cyber capabilities to interfere with enemy communications and protect their own networks.
4. Quantum Computing and Encryption
Quantum computing, while still in the nascent stages, has the capacity to jeopardize traditional encryption techniques. Sheena highlighted that countries that invest in quantum-resistant cryptography will gain a strategic edge in protecting sensitive military information.
5. Human-Machine Teaming
The idea of “human-machine teaming” is catching on, where troops operate in tandem with AI-driven systems to have greater situational awareness and combat effectiveness. Exoskeletons, augmented reality (AR) visualization for the battlefield, and AI-enabled logistics were some of the technologies she showcased.
