25–26 Jun 2026
''Vasil Levski'' National Military University
Europe/Sofia timezone

Artificial Intelligence in Defense Diplomacy: Strategic Opportunities and Security Challenges

Not scheduled
20m
''Vasil Levski'' National Military University

''Vasil Levski'' National Military University

Veliko Tarnovo, Bulgaria
Paper – Poster Presentation Defense and Security Technology

Speaker

Mr Stefan Markov (University of Library Studies and Information Technologies)

Description

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) is reshaping the landscape of defense diplomacy and international security. In an environment characterized by hybrid threats, strategic competition, and accelerated decision-making cycles, AI technologies—particularly large language models (LLMs) and predictive analytics—offer enhanced capabilities for real-time intelligence processing, scenario modeling, and strategic communication. These tools improve situational awareness and support more informed diplomatic and defense decisions.

However, the integration of AI into defense diplomacy also introduces significant risks. Challenges such as algorithmic bias, lack of transparency, and the generation of inaccurate or misleading outputs raise concerns regarding the reliability and accountability of AI-assisted decision-making. Additionally, the proliferation of AI-generated disinformation and deepfake technologies poses a direct threat to diplomatic trust and crisis stability.

This paper examines the dual-use nature of AI in defense diplomacy, highlighting both its strategic opportunities and potential security challenges. It proposes a conceptual framework for responsible AI integration based on human-in-the-loop governance, ethical oversight, and the development of international regulatory standards. The study argues that effective governance and interdisciplinary cooperation are essential to ensuring that AI enhances, rather than undermines, stability in the international system.

Furthermore, the paper emphasizes the importance of building institutional resilience and developing specialized competencies among diplomatic actors to effectively engage with AI-driven systems. This includes targeted training in digital literacy, critical evaluation of AI outputs, and the integration of interdisciplinary expertise from fields such as data science, psychology, and security studies. Strengthening these capacities is essential for mitigating risks, enhancing strategic adaptability, and ensuring that human judgment remains central in increasingly technology-mediated diplomatic environments.

Author

Plamen Teodosiev (University of Library Studies and Information Technologies)

Co-author

Mr Stefan Markov (University of Library Studies and Information Technologies)

Presentation materials

There are no materials yet.