DEEPFAKE DETERRENCE: CAN AI-GENERATED BLUFFS UNDERMINE PAKISTANI NUCLEAR CREDIBILITY?

Abstract

This paper looks at the possibility of deepfakes through AI to discredit the reputation of the Pakistan nuclear deterrence rule. Deepfakes as an example of AI-generated material with the potential to produce hyper-realistic and artificial media have emerged as a less than ideal feature of national security and geopolitical stability. In that particular study, the impacts of deepfake on Pakistan nuclear posture are under scrutiny since it forms a crucial component of its security policy. The paper also seeks to comprehend the vulnerability of these technologies in being used to perpetrate hoax nuclear threats or misinformation that may affect the strategic credibility of Pakistan. The study adopts the mixed-methods approach in which the quantitative data collected through the analysis of social media and qualitative data through interviews of the security analysts and policymakers is used. These results indicate that although there is a possibility that deepfakes will affect the understanding of nuclear threats, the credibility that Pakistan already developed in relation to nuclear weapons, basing on its history and strategic communication, is strong. The increasing complexity of AI is however, the new threat to the international policies. The study adds its voice to the debate on the nexus of cybersecurity, nuclear security, and technological development in international relations as it urges all the stakeholders to improve their knowledge and preparedness regarding dealing with the challenges posed by AI.