| Type | Global political phenomenon |
| Forms | Artificial Intelligence research • Climate change impacts • Autonomous supply chain manufacturing |
| Factors | Technological innovation • Economic competition • Strategic rivalry |
| Common dynamics | Competition • Diplomatic tension • Innovation |
| Impact on international relations | Decreased cooperation • Increased instability • Altered strategic balances |
Arms races are a persistent feature of global politics in this alternate timeline, characterized by intense competition between two or more states to gain superiority in military technology. The triggers for these rivalries are quite different from those found in our present reality, reflecting the unique technological and geopolitical contexts of this alternate world.
As autonomous vehicles have become increasingly popular and practical, various countries have invested heavily in the development of self-driving technology to achieve an edge over their rivals. The competition between rival teams of AI researchers has created a high-stakes arms race, with the goal of designing the most advanced and reliable autonomous vehicles. This arms race has significant consequences not only for the automotive industry but also for military applications, as autonomous ground and air vehicles can be adapted for various types of warfare.
In an alternate timeline, China and India have become fierce rivals in the realm of artificial intelligence, each nation vying to become the undisputed leader in AI research, development, and deployment. This arms race has attracted the best AI researchers and engineers from around the globe, as they work to create the most sophisticated AI systems for both civilian and military applications. The Chinese government, in particular, has made AI a central aspect of its national strategy, as it seeks to leverage AI advances to maintain its dominant position in the global economy and its political influence.
The impacts of climate change, including rising sea levels and extreme coastal flooding, have made undersea bases and advanced submarines an attractive alternative for strategic military deployment. States have therefore engaged in an arms race to develop ever-more-sophisticated submarines and submersible habitats, each vying to claim a strategic advantage in the depths of the ocean.
In this alternate timeline, pharmaceutical companies have become key players in an arms race revolving around biotechnology and genetic research. As the medical field continues to make remarkable breakthroughs in genetic modification, immunology, and advanced cell therapies, these companies have poured billions of dollars into R&D to gain a competitive edge in the burgeoning market for cutting-edge medical treatments.
As electric vehicles (EVs) have become more popular and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fossil fuel-powered automobiles, a fierce race has emerged among nations to develop better batteries for EVs. These countries have invested heavily in materials science research to create batteries that are both more durable and capable of storing more energy, with the ultimate goal of outpacing other nations' technological capabilities.
Nations have also entered into a global arms race to develop cutting-edge autonomous supply chain drones, as they compete for dominance in logistics and commerce. Companies have spent vast resources on drone research and development to unlock the full potential of this rapidly growing sector.
With the growing interdependence of nations in an increasingly globalized world, countries have begun to view arms races as an institutionalized part of national strategy. Recognizing the growing importance of technology and innovation, various international treaties and intergovernmental organizations have emerged to manage these arms races and maintain international stability.
In this alternate timeline, arms races present a unique combination of challenges and opportunities for nations, as they navigate the shifting landscapes of technology, economics, and global politics. The success of these rivalries will depend not only on the mastery of cutting-edge technologies but also on the ability of nations to negotiate the delicate balance between rivalry and cooperation in international relations.
