Bright Prospects, Big Challenges: Defence AI in the United Kingdom

Abstract

Abstract The UK is strategically positioned to capitalize on advancements in AI, especially in the realm of national security. It has taken significant steps in this direction by formulating an AI strategy for defence and national security, engaging in collaborative efforts across government, industry, and academia. The British military is actively experimenting with autonomous platforms and exploring new doctrines for their effective utilization, including aerial drone swarms, pilotless “loyal wingmen,” unmanned submersibles, and tactical ground robots. Partnerships with industry and academia are being strengthened, and autonomous systems are already being employed in data processing and intelligence analysis. However, several challenges lie ahead, including uncertainty regarding AI’s future development and concerns about its ethical implications and performance, particularly in the face of adversarial countermeasures and potential biases. Britain’s aspiration to maintain full spectrum military and intelligence capabilities on a global scale while undergoing significant technological transformation presents formidable challenges, especially given the need to balance these ambitions with a large and growing defence budget. Economic and political uncertainties, including those stemming from Brexit and low productivity, further complicate the situation. These challenges extend beyond immediate defence budgeting, impacting the country’s research base, attractiveness to investment, and ability to attract high-skilled migration. Despite these obstacles, the UK remains committed to advancing its defence capabilities and leveraging AI to address evolving security threats.