AI and the Future of Global Dominance – a Geopolitical Take
From #IFSUnleashed Industrial AI Conference, Florida
In today’s rapidly shifting global landscape, no country—or business—can afford to fall behind in the AI race. Throughout history, technological superiority has been the foundation of power and dominance: from the Assyrians’ mastery of iron (while their rivals- the Egyptians and Babylonians- were still using bronze), to the Romans’ engineering and infrastructure feats, or the naval competition of the 15th to 20th centuries…to the Cold War. Those who led in technology shaped the world in their image and on their terms. Today, AI is that transformative force, reshaping industries across the globe. From defence to manufacturing, energy and healthcare, #IndustrialAI in particular is driving transformation through real-time data analysis, robotics, automation, simulation and forecasting. Whether it’s responding to geopolitical volatility and supply chain disruptions, decarbonisation, or predicting critical infrastructure and asset failure in commercial aircraft or navy ships, #AI is becoming the backbone of industries critical to economic growth and resilience. Here’s why:
· Resilience in volatile times: In an era of multilayered volatility -political, economic, and technological - Industrial AI is essential for building resilience. Real time data and software that can reason enables us to predict disruptions, optimize resource allocation, and maintain continuity during unforeseen events, like pandemics, climate change, inflation or regional conflict, ensuring we can adapt quickly and mitigate challenges.
· Countries are already vying for AI leadership because AI is a competitive advantage that underpins productivity, economic power, and military strength. This is why the Chinese government announced in its 2030 strategy that they intended to lead the world the world in AI. The US continues to steam ahead – with Google, Amazon and Microsoft as key locomotives. Singapore is making strides in fintech and smart cities, driven by private sector innovation. Indian companies Tata Consultancy and Infosys are making a name for India in this space by integrating AI into finance and healthcare.
· AI as soft and hard power: Beyond its role in economic, defence and military applications, AI can be a form of soft power by solving some of humanity’s greatest shared challenges challenges. Nations and businesses that lead in AI will not only increase relevance geopolitically but by addressing issues like disease detection and treatment, climate change and sustainable agriculture- innovation becomes a form of international influence in itself.
As ever, the greatest opportunities are afforded to those at the vanguard of embracing new technology. Those who hesitate will be left behind. The time to embrace this transformative technology is now. The future will not wait—neither should we.
#GlobalLeadership #Innovation #FutureTech
