CSET Analyzes U.S.-China AI Competition Impact on Military

On September 25, 2026, Sam Bresnick from the Center for Security and Emerging Technology (CSET) participated in an ABC News interview to discuss the ongoing competition between the U.S. and China in artificial intelligence. The discussion centered around how AI is being leveraged by adversaries, including Iran, against the U.S. military. Bresnick highlighted the strategic implications of China's advancements in AI and related technologies, such as reusable rocket technology and humanoid robots. These developments are perceived as a challenge to U.S. military and technological superiority.

In related discussions, Bresnick also contributed to articles on CBS News and NewsNation, examining how AI is used by nations like Iran against U.S. military forces. Furthermore, an op-ed in Nikkei Asia by CSET experts, including Kathleen Curlee, emphasized China's progress in rocket technology, which could potentially threaten U.S. space dominance.

China's investment in humanoid robots, discussed in an interview with Sky News, indicates a strategic focus on enhancing military capabilities through advanced manufacturing and robotics. This investment reflects a broader trend of integrating AI into national defense strategies, further intensifying the U.S.-China rivalry.

The discussions underscore a significant shift in military strategy dynamics, with AI becoming a critical component of national defense. The U.S. faces increased pressure to advance its AI capabilities to maintain a competitive edge. China's progress in AI and related technologies poses a direct challenge to the U.S., necessitating a reevaluation of defense priorities and investments.

This competition signals a potential power shift in technological leadership, as China continues to make strides in AI-driven military applications. The U.S. must address these advancements by bolstering its domestic AI industry and ensuring technological superiority in military applications.

Moreover, the increasing use of AI by adversaries like Iran highlights the need for robust cybersecurity measures and strategic countermeasures. This dynamic requires the U.S. to invest in AI research and development to safeguard national security and maintain global influence.

In the near term, expect intensified focus on AI policy and funding in the U.S., aiming to close the technological gap with China. By early 2027, the U.S. government may announce new initiatives to enhance AI capabilities in military and space sectors.

Additionally, diplomatic efforts could increase, seeking to establish international norms and agreements on AI usage in military contexts. These efforts may involve multilateral discussions with allies to counterbalance China's growing influence in AI technology.

The competitive landscape in AI could lead to increased collaboration between U.S. tech companies and the government to accelerate innovation. This partnership might expand to include academia and other stakeholders, fostering a robust ecosystem for AI development.

China's advancements might also prompt other nations to accelerate their AI investments, potentially leading to a global race in AI and related technologies. This scenario could result in regulatory challenges as countries attempt to navigate the ethical and security implications of AI deployment in military applications.

Bresnick's analysis highlights the critical role of sovereign AI capabilities in maintaining national security. The U.S. must prioritize AI development to avoid dependence on foreign technologies, which could compromise its strategic autonomy. As AI continues to reshape global power dynamics, countries with advanced AI capabilities will likely wield significant influence in international affairs.

The U.S.-China AI rivalry is reminiscent of the Cold War's technological race, where innovation and strategic investments determined global leadership. Unlike the Cold War, however, the current competition involves complex interdependencies and rapid technological advancements, necessitating adaptive and forward-thinking strategies.