The U.S. and China are in intense competition to develop AI-equipped swarming drones for military purposes.

Both nations are investing significant resources, with the U.S. focusing on low-cost drones as a counter to China's actions regarding Taiwan.

China claims substantial progress in drone technology, raising concerns about possible instability and conflict from the proliferation of swarm technology.

AI safety discussions have been overshadowed by the urgency of the arms race for autonomous drones, with worries about the technology spreading to other countries.

Experts predict that combat-ready drone swarms could be operational within five years, with the current conflict in Ukraine drawing attention to drone usage.

Logistical hurdles are also present, including the coordination of potentially hundreds of air and sea drones in combat scenarios.