AI and Other Technological Advancements in the Defence Sector
Written By
Partner
UK
I am a specialist in outsourcing and large scale technology projects and co-head the firm's Technology Transactions and International Outsourcing practice groups.
Senior Associate
UK
As a senior associate in the Tech Transactions team, I primarily advise clients on technology contracts across the Technology and Defence sectors. I focus on emerging and cutting edge technology (Artificial Intelligence in particular), more 'traditional' defence contracting, and the intersection of the two - helping clients navigate the rapidly evolving Defence Tech sector.
The global defence sector continues to experience a technological transformation, driven in a large part by improvements in AI technologies. In the past year, the application of increasingly sophisticated AI systems has been explored and implemented in various areas.
Vast quantities of data generated by the sector and elsewhere can be processed by these AI systems, and patterns (and anomalies) identified with greater throughput, speed and accuracy. This has very wide applications, from analysis of satellite data and automated tracking, to increased efficiency of administrative processes, such as the analysis of medical records in defence recruitment. Additionally, AI is being leveraged in maintenance, repair and overhaul services, to streamline the replacement of parts and optimise supply chains, thereby improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime.
The use of AI to automate high-risk activities is being trialled in a range of defence scenarios. In 2023, the US Air Force announced that it had conducted a successful three-hour flight where AI agents were used to control a XQ-58A Valkyrie uncrewed aircraft. In a more recent example, the AUKUS partnership has announced this year that it has trialled the use of AI in robotic vehicles, and specifically their ability to complete operations and maintain network connectivity in a contested environment.
However, this rapid integration of AI also raises concerns about the associated risks, particularly in the context of military operations where the stakes are high. The EU AI Act explicitly excludes from its scope AI systems that are exclusively designed for military, defence or national security purposes, whether the entity carrying out such activities is private or public sector. Similarly, in the US, the “Political Declaration on Responsible Military Use of Artificial Intelligence and Autonomy” aims to promote responsible practices in military AI applications, but its guidelines are not legally binding. This regulatory ambiguity could result in ethical dilemmas and operational risks as AI technologies evolve without oversight.
Beyond AI, the defence sector is also focusing on other technological advancements. It is expected that there will be increased investment into solid rocket motors, which are used in advanced missile systems and in the space arena. Furthermore, quantum computing is expected to offer computational power which could transform encryption, intelligence gathering, and data security in military applications.
Our international defence and security team have worked with Lexology on the publication of Lexology Panoramic: Defence & Security Procurement. The team has written the global overview, the France, Germany, Italy, Poland, UK, Denmark, Sweden, Hungary and Australia chapters and Mark Leach and Will Bryson are contributing editors for the publication. All content on the hub is reproduced with permission from Law Business Research Ltd and was first published in Lexology Panoramic. For further information please visit: https://www.lexology.com/panoramic
