Artificial Intelligence Integration in Military Medicine: A Strategic Framework for Enhanced Security and Operational Effectiveness in Contemporary Warfare

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) technologies presents unprecedented opportunities for transforming military medical services, particularly in addressing the complex challenges of modern warfare scenarios. However, the integration of AI in military healthcare systems introduces significant security vulnerabilities that require comprehensive risk mitigation strategies. This study aims to develop a strategic framework for the systematic integration of AI technologies in military medicine while maintaining operational security and addressing future warfare scenarios over the next two decades. A comprehensive structured narrative review was conducted, analysing 30 authoritative sources, including NATO strategic documents, US military medical research publications, European Defence Agency reports, peer-reviewed military and medical journals and cybersecurity research papers. The analysis focused on current AI applications, security challenges, future warfare scenarios and implementation strategies. The research identified ten critical AI application domains in military medicine: clinical decision support, battlefield triage, predictive health analytics, telemedicine, supply chain management, cybersecurity, training simulation, mental health monitoring, biodefence and equipment maintenance. A four-phase strategic roadmap was developed, encompassing foundation building, integration, advanced deployment and full operational capability. Successful AI integration in military medicine requires a balanced approach addressing technological advancement, security imperatives and operational effectiveness. The proposed framework provides actionable guidance for military medical services to achieve technological superiority while maintaining security integrity.