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Following the first ever joint US-UK Defence Innovation Board meeting on 21 May, the Defence Secretary has announced the creation of a new artificial intelligence lab to...

As part of the MOD’s commitment to pursue and deliver future capabilities, the Defence Secretary announced the launch of AI Lab – a single flagship for Artificial Intelligence, machine learning and data science at the Dstl in Porton Down. AI Lab will enhance and accelerate the UK’s world-class capability in the application of AI-related technologies to Defence and Security challenges. Dstl currently delivers more than £20 million of research related to AI and this is forecast to grow significantly.

AI Lab will engage in high-level research on areas from autonomous vehicles to intelligent systems; from countering fake news to using information to deter and de-escalate conflicts; and from enhanced computer network defences to improved decision aids for commanders. AI Lab provides tremendous opportunities to help keep the British public safe from a range of defence and security threats. This new creation will help Dstl contribute more fully to this vital challenge.

The joint the US-UK Defence Innovation Board meeting enabled experts from across Defence and industry in the UK and US, to meet and discuss their experiences and innovation priorities.

Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said:

“The relationship we have with our American partners is indispensable to both our nations. In the face of evolving global threats, we must harness new technologies and approaches to stay ahead of our adversaries and keep us safe.

Today’s meeting of military and scientific minds from both sides of the Atlantic encourages our best and brightest to develop new capabilities in everything from Artificial Intelligence and autonomous weapons to advanced cyber and robotics”.

Building upon this hugely important area of research, the Defence Secretary also announced a reciprocal UK Defence Innovation Board visit to the US later this year which will develop joint recommendations based on the needs of the MOD and its American partners.

In addition, the UK’s Defence External Advisory Panel has published findings from their independent report which examines how the MOD can become ‘innovative by instinct’. The report highlighted a requirement to expand capabilities in cyber defence and information technology systems but also the need to streamline procurement processes and the implementation of ground-breaking abilities.

For the official government announcement, please click here.