China's Military AI Acquisition Strategies

This report is a detailed examination of the People's Liberation Army's (PLA) requests for proposals (RFPs) related to artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, specifically focusing on command, control, communications, computers, cyber, intelligence, surveillance, reconnaissance, and targeting (C5ISRT). The analysis covers RFPs published between January 1, 2023, and December 31, 2024, revealing the PLA's ambitions to enhance its military capabilities through AI. The report outlines various applications, including AI-enabled decision support systems, sensor enhancement tools, and data fusion algorithms, aimed at improving military decision-making and operational precision. It emphasizes the PLA's strategic focus on countering perceived U.S. military advantages, particularly in maritime and space domains. The report discusses the implications of these developments for U.S. policymakers, highlighting the need for enhanced counter-sensing capabilities and a reevaluation of military strategies in response to China's rapid advancements in AI technologies.