Strategic Stability in the Age of AI: Can We Build a More Constructive Future?

2026-07-14

Introduction

Strategic stability has long been strongly correlated with nuclear deterrence policies. As we enter the age of AI, how should we re-examine strategic stability? AI is increasingly integrated into intelligence analysis, early-warning systems, command-and-control links, autonomous combat platforms, and military decision-making processes, creating new opportunities while also introducing new uncertainties. As decision cycles keep shortening and the transparency of military operations rises markedly, will AI strengthen strategic stability, or will it heighten the risks of miscalculation, escalate crises, and erode strategic trust? As China and the United States resume intergovernmental dialogue on AI, can the international community look forward to a safer and more stable future? How can international organizations represented by the United Nations pool forces from governments, industry, academia, and other stakeholders to address these challenges? Recorded on the sidelines of the 14th World Peace Forum, this episode of SinoAI Insights features two experts on AI governance and international security. Together, they explore the prospects and challenges of building strategic stability in the age of AI.

Strategic Stability in the Age of AI: Can We Build a More Constructive Future?.mp3


Host

·XIAO Qian, Deputy Director, Center for International Security and Strategy, Tsinghua University

Guests

·LU Chuanying, Professor, Vice Dean, School of Political Science and International Relations, Tongji University; Vice President, Shanghai Association for Artificial Intelligence and Social Development

·Yasmin AFINA, Researcher (AI), Security and Technology Programme, United Nations Institute for Disarmament Research

Shownotes

02:23 How Is AI Reshaping Traditional Assumptions About Strategic Stability?

08:38 New Strategic Instabilities Stemming from Military AI

15:02 Key Outcomes of the Informal Intergovernmental AI Consultations in Geneva

24:33 Development Progress of the UNIDIR Centre of Excellence on AI, Peace and Security

32:49 Pathways and Barriers for Chinese Tech Companies in Global AI Governance

35:08 The Significance and Priorities of the China-U.S. Intergovernmental AI Dialogue

39:24 Prospects for China-U.S. Cooperation from a United Nations Perspective

46:47 How to Build Strategic Trust Across Cultural Differences?

50:49 Five-Year Outlook on AI and International Security

Team

Executive Producer:XIAO Qian

Producers:WANG Yexu、 LIU Yuan

Podcast Editor:ZHONG Junwen

Content Assistant:DU Wanhong

Graphics Designer:XU Ruijia