China Shifts Military Focus from 'Assassin's Mace' Weapons to AI Systems, Worrying US

China previously pursued an "assassin's mace" tactic with weapons targeting US weaknesses when its military lagged behind. Now it is focusing on versatile, AI-powered systems.

China has moved away from specialized "assassin's mace" weapons under Xi, instead prioritizing overall military capabilities and support systems.

The US sees the technology competition with China as centered on developing the best AI-military systems. It aims to leverage innovation and autonomous systems.

China's development of advanced military tech worries the US due to the secrecy and potential for strategic surprise if China makes a breakthrough.

Weapons like the "carrier killer" missile remain part of China's strategy against the US, while AI capabilities are still developing on both sides.