China’s PLA Integrates DeepSeek AI Tool for Non-Combat Support Functions
China's People’s Liberation Army (PLA) has begun utilizing the newly released DeepSeek AI tool to enhance non-combat functions, particularly in military hospitals. The open-source large language model (LLM) is being deployed to assist doctors in devising treatment plans and supporting other civilian sectors. This marks a significant step in the integration of AI into China’s military and national defense systems, reports say.
DeepSeek AI in PLA Hospitals and National Defense
DeepSeek's R1-70B LLM has already been embedded in several PLA hospitals, including the PLA Central Theatre Command General Hospital.
The hospital has highlighted that the AI tool helps provide treatment plan suggestions for doctors while ensuring patient privacy and data security. All the data acquired is processed and stored on local servers.
In a similar fashion, other PLA facilities are witnessing such deployments including the prestigious PLA General Hospital in Beijing, which serves top Chinese officials and military officers.
While the PLA embraces AI for non-combat uses, it remains cautious about relying too heavily on AI in decision-making, especially on the battlefield. An article in PLA Daily stated that AI should guide, not replace, human decisions due to its lack of self-awareness. The article emphasized that human judgment must always remain central in military strategies to maintain accountability and adaptability.
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Expanding AI Applications Across China’s Military and Civil Sectors
The deployment of DeepSeek in military hospitals is only part of China's broader push to integrate AI across multiple sectors. China has been actively promoting AI in healthcare, manufacturing, and urban development. Additionally, DeepSeek is being used in anti-corruption efforts by some Chinese government agencies.
The People’s Armed Police (PAP), a paramilitary force under the Central Military Commission, has also started using DeepSeek for daily physical training and psychological counseling. This is part of a broader initiative to explore AI's potential in non-combat military operations. The Hainan paramilitary force has even shared how DeepSeek has been used to help soldiers manage anxiety and create tailored exercise plans.
Preparing AI for Combat Functions
Experts, such as Sam Bresnick, a research fellow at Georgetown University, believe that by deploying DeepSeek AI in controlled, non-combat environments, the PLA can address technical challenges before expanding its use into more sensitive areas, such as battlefield intelligence and decision-making.
DeepSeek’s advanced capabilities might support drone swarm tactics, enhance pilot training, and improve overall battlefield decision-making in the future.
China has long been focused on incorporating high-end technologies, particularly AI, to strengthen its combat capabilities. The use of DeepSeek in routine military functions shows a strong commitment to modernizing and adapting to AI-driven innovations. Additionally, the Guangming Daily noted that DeepSeek is playing an increasingly important role in military intelligence, helping to process battlefield data in real-time for precise situational awareness during combat.
