Unmanned, Unchecked: Tech-Driven Instability in South Asia

by: Adil Sultan

Date: March 14, 2025

Emerging military technologies are transforming conflict dynamics in South Asia, introducing new risks to strategic stability between India and Pakistan. Drones, AI-driven warfare, and cyber capabilities are lowering the threshold for escalation, making conflicts more opaque and harder to control. Both countries are rapidly expanding their drone programs, but without clear engagement protocols, the potential for miscalculation and unintended escalation remains high. The integration of AI into military decision-making and nuclear command structures further complicates crisis management, raising concerns about automated escalation. Meanwhile, the growing accessibility of advanced weaponry to non-state actors adds another layer of instability. As technological advancements outpace regulatory frameworks, South Asia faces a critical challenge: how to harness new defense capabilities without undermining deterrence.