In a groundbreaking development, the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) Navy has integrated artificial intelligence (AI) into a warship degaussing exercise for the first time, marking a significant leap in naval stealth technology. This exercise, conducted by a base under the PLA Northern Theater Command, utilized AI to enhance the efficiency of degaussing—a process critical for reducing a vessel’s magnetic signature to evade magnetic sea mines and detection systems.

What Is Degaussing and Why Does It Matter?

Degaussing is a process that minimizes a warship’s magnetic field, making it less detectable to magnetic sensors and reducing the risk of triggering magnetic sea mines. As warships operate over time, they accumulate magnetic signatures due to the Earth’s magnetic field and onboard machinery, which can compromise their stealth. The PLA Navy’s recent exercise, featuring a Type 054A guided missile frigate, demonstrated how AI can optimize this process, achieving a reported 60% increase in efficiency, according to China Central Television (CCTV).

Key Benefits of AI in Degaussing:

• Faster Processing: AI identifies optimal algorithms to streamline degaussing, reducing downtime for warships.
• Enhanced Stealth: Improved magnetic stealth protects vessels from magnetic mines and detection systems.
• Combat Readiness: Accelerated degaussing strengthens fleet preparedness, as noted by Chinese military expert Song Zhongping.

How AI Enhances Naval Warfare:

The integration of AI into naval operations, as demonstrated by the PLA Navy, represents a paradigm shift in maritime warfare. By leveraging AI-assisted decision-making systems, the PLA Navy not only improved operational efficiency but also trained a new generation of recruits—averaging under 23 years old—in high-stakes scenarios. This dual focus on technology and human capital underscores China’s ambition to dominate future naval conflicts.

Advantages of AI in Naval Warfare

• Precision and Speed: AI can process vast datasets to optimize complex tasks like degaussing, navigation, and targeting.
• Automation: Autonomous systems reduce human error and allow for rapid response in dynamic combat environments.
• Scalability: AI can be integrated across fleets, enhancing coordination and operational scale.

Dangers of AI in Naval Warfare

While AI offers significant advantages, its proliferation in naval warfare raises serious concerns:

• Autonomous Decision-Making Risks: AI systems, if not tightly controlled, could misinterpret data or act without human oversight, potentially escalating conflicts. For instance, an AI misjudging a neutral vessel’s magnetic signature could trigger unintended attacks.
• Cybersecurity Vulnerabilities: AI systems are susceptible to hacking or manipulation, which could compromise a navy’s stealth capabilities or even turn AI-driven systems against their operators.
• Arms Race Acceleration: The PLA Navy’s AI advancements may prompt rival nations to escalate their own AI development, leading to a destabilizing global arms race.
• Ethical Concerns: The use of AI in lethal operations raises questions about accountability, especially in scenarios involving civilian vessels or unintended casualties.

Global Perspectives:

The PLA Navy’s AI-powered degaussing exercise has drawn international attention, with varied reactions from global powers and analysts:

United States

The U.S., a leading naval power, views China’s AI advancements with concern. The Pentagon’s 2024 China Military Power Report highlights the PLA Navy’s growing global reach and technological sophistication, noting its ability to project power far from home. This development may spur U.S. investments in counter-AI technologies and electronic warfare to neutralize China’s stealth advantages.

Australia and New Zealand

Australia and New Zealand, rattled by recent PLA Navy live-fire exercises in the Tasman Sea, see China’s AI advancements as part of a broader strategy to project power in the Indo-Pacific. Analysts suggest these exercises serve as a “wake-up call” for regional navies to modernize and counter China’s technological edge.

Russia and Iran

Allies like Russia and Iran, which participated in joint naval exercises with China in 2025, may view this development positively, as it strengthens their collective ability to challenge Western naval dominance. However, they may also seek to acquire similar AI technologies to avoid falling behind.

Global Sentiment on X: Posts on X reflect mixed reactions, with some praising China’s technological prowess and others expressing alarm over its military implications. One user noted, “China’s AI degaussing is a game-changer for naval stealth,” while another warned, “This could tip the balance in the South China Sea.”

The Strategic Significance

China’s AI-powered degaussing exercise can be analyzed from several perspectives:

Technological Innovation

The successful deployment of AI in a real-world naval exercise showcases China’s growing expertise in military AI. Unlike the U.S., which faces bureaucratic hurdles in AI adoption, China’s centralized approach allows rapid integration, as evidenced by the 60% efficiency gain.

Human Capital Development

The involvement of young recruits in high-risk drills highlights China’s focus on building a tech-savvy, combat-ready force. By integrating new recruits into core operations, the PLA Navy is accelerating its transition to a modern, AI-enabled fighting force.

Geopolitical Signaling

This exercise sends a clear message to rivals like the U.S., India, and Australia: China is not only expanding its naval presence but also leveraging cutting-edge technology to gain a strategic edge. The timing, amidst tensions in the Taiwan Strait and South China Sea, amplifies its significance.

Economic Implications

China’s investment in AI-driven naval technology could drive economic growth in its defense sector, creating jobs and fostering innovation. However, it may also strain resources, given domestic economic challenges reported during the 2025 Two Sessions.

Environmental and Safety Concerns

While degaussing itself is environmentally neutral, the broader use of AI in naval operations raises questions about electromagnetic pollution and the safety of AI-driven systems in high-stakes environments. Malfunctions could endanger crews or civilian vessels.

A New Era in Naval Warfare

The PLA Navy’s AI-powered degaussing exercise marks a pivotal moment in naval warfare, blending cutting-edge technology with strategic ambition. While it enhances China’s stealth and combat capabilities, it also raises critical questions about the dangers of AI in military applications, from cybersecurity risks to ethical dilemmas. As global powers recalibrate their strategies in response, the world watches closely, aware that this development could reshape the balance of power on the high seas.