UK Turns to AI and Drones for New Battlefield Strategy

The UK Ministry of Defence (MoD) is investing over £1 billion to develop advanced technologies aimed at enhancing decision-making on the battlefield. This initiative is part of the government’s forthcoming strategic defence review, which is set to be published in full on Monday. The review outlines plan to raise defence spending to 2.5% of GDP by April 2027, with an ambition to increase it to 3% in the next parliament.

A key component of the strategy is the creation of a “Digital Targeting Web,” designed to integrate data from satellites, aircraft, and drones to provide soldiers with real-time intelligence. This system aims to accelerate the identification and targeting of enemy threats, drawing lessons from the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where similar technologies have been employed to enhance military effectiveness.

Defence Secretary John Healey emphasized that the review represents a comprehensive approach to modernising the UK’s military capabilities, incorporating artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced software to improve operational efficiency. The MoD also highlighted the increasing frequency and sophistication of cyber-attacks, noting that the UK military has faced over 90,000 such incidents in the past two years. In response, the UK has been conducting its offensive cyber operations to safeguard national security.

The strategic defence review underscores the evolving nature of warfare, with a focus on technological innovation to maintain a competitive edge in modern combat scenarios.