Impact of Emergent Technologies: AI and Autonomous Systems in Indian Military Operations and Increasing Requirement of Predictive Maintenance

Abstract

In contemporary warfare, the integration of Artificial Intelligence and autonomous systems has created a paradigm shift, making Predictive maintenance (PdM) a key enabler of operational readiness. This paper examines the impact of AI-enabled autonomous systems in military operations with a focus on the specific needs of the Indian Armed Forces. Through a structured literature review, unique challenges such as legacy systems integration, resource constraints, and multi-domain operations are identified. A tailored five-layer Predictive maintenance framework aligned to Indian defence requirements is proposed, covering sensor acquisition, edge processing, secure communication, central AI analytics, and decision support. The framework addresses data quality, algorithm robustness, cybersecurity, and human-machine collaboration. Practical recommendations are offered for policymakers, defence planners, and researchers seeking to enhance defence preparedness.