China is planning to incorporate a high level of artificial intelligence and automation in its next-generation of cruise missiles, according to a senior designer.

"We plan to adopt a 'plug and play' approach in the development of new cruise missiles, which will enable our military commanders to tailor-make missiles in accordance with combat conditions," Wang Changqing of the China Aerospace and Industry Corp told state-run publication China Daily. 

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"Moreover, our future cruise missiles will have a very high level of artificial intelligence and automation," Wang added. He also pointed out that military commanders will be able to control the state-of-the-art missiles in real-time, enable the fire-and-forget mode and even add more tasks to airborne missiles.

China has emerged as a superpower in the field of combining artificial intelligence with missile technology, according to Wang.

Chinese President Xi Jinping has been bolstering China's defense capabilities and is currently overseeing a project to modernize China's military, which includes the development of stealth fighters and building aircraft carriers, according to Reuters.

This has become a cause for concern among China's neighbors, many of whom are involved in a territorial dispute with China. The United States has also become wary of the country's increasing military assertiveness.

China has defended its military expansion by saying that it has no hostile intentions and that the modernization was in line with the economic growth and security needs of the country.

Beijing has placed a special focus on the development of missiles, including anti-missile missiles and anti-satellite missiles.

Tagschina, Artificial Intelligence, missiles, cruise missiles, Military, Chinese missiles