Advanced AI and Genetic Enhancements in China's Military Elite: 7 Pivotal Developments
In a rapid pursuit of military dominance, China is aggressively advancing its CRISPR gene editing and AI-fused biotechnology soldier programs with the aim of leading the way in genetic doping and AI-enhanced human performance for warfare by 2030 [1][5]. These programs focus on enhancing soldiers' muscle mass, immune systems, and cognitive abilities beyond natural limits using CRISPR-Cas9 and related technologies.
The Chinese Academy of Sciences, the world's leading institution in CRISPR research, publishes more related papers than any other body and conducts twice as many trials as the US, underscoring a strong scientific foundation for these military applications [1]. Gene doping and synthetic biology serve as major pillars in enhancing physical and mental soldier capabilities for strategic advantage [1][5].
However, these advancements come with significant risks. The potential for bioweapon dangers, global security shifts, and ethical concerns around genetically enhanced forces loom large [1][5]. The AI fusion aspect involves combining genetic enhancements with real-time data processing, advanced decision support, and possibly neuromorphic systems to create "biotech soldiers" with superior situational awareness and combat efficiency [1].
The use of gene editing technologies like CRISPR can boost memory, focus, and decision-making abilities in soldiers. However, there are concerns about off-target mutations, altering DNA sequences beyond the intended targets, creating disorders that appear months or years later [5]. This data becomes a weapon against soldiers and their families, enabling targeted biological weapons development.
Moreover, super soldier programs raise concerns about informed consent and soldier autonomy. Military personnel may be pressured to undergo genetic modifications without a full understanding of long-term health risks [5]. Gene doping affects not just individual soldiers but their future children through heritable genetic modifications, violating the rights of unborn generations who cannot consent to these permanent changes.
The People's Liberation Army and other military forces may mandate these procedures, violating basic principles of voluntary medical participation. The Chinese National Gene Bank retains genetic information from prenatal tests and military screening programs, raising concerns about DNA misuse for national security purposes.
Chinese scientists use CRISPR Cpf1 enzyme systems for precise genome editing to boost muscle strength, improve memory function, and enhance immune systems [5]. Military scientists edit non-coding RNAs to alter genetic traits, metabolism rates, and physical performance markers in test subjects.
These advancements, if unchecked, could create a new arms race in military technology, favouring genetically enhanced forces and potentially destabilizing international security. As declining costs of molecular genetics tools mean terrorists could access the same technologies used for soldier enhancement, it is crucial that international regulations are put in place to ensure the safe and ethical use of these groundbreaking technologies.
