UK conducts its largest ever AI trial for the Defence Sector

The Government has conducted its largest ever defence AI trial, the third iteration of its WINTERMUTE programme. This comes after the Prime Minister committed to increasing defence spending to 2.5% of GDP in a Spring spending announcement.   

The five day trial focused on data collection to develop and validate AI algorithms provided by technology company Thales. It was led by 200 scientists from the Defence Science Technology Laboratory and personnel from the Royal Navy and RAF.

The aim is to create systems which enable faster decision making and reduce cognitive load for naval and airforce personnel. Crucially, no system is fully autonomous, all are operated by trained staff members. 

Dr Paul Hollinshead, Dstl’s Chief Executive, emphasised: “The use of these AI systems is designed to support, not replace, human decision-making in defence operations.” 

The algorithms will process information from multiple domains to:

• Improve threat detection in complex environments    
• Enhance maritime surveillance
• Advance target recognition from sensors 

Building International Defence Partnerships  

Industry partners from the United States and Australia participated in the programme. This follows the UK’s commitment to international defence partnerships which boost economic growth in the government’s Plan for Change.

Minister for Defence Procurement and Industry, Rt Hon Maria Eagle MP said “significant trials like this, working with international and industry partners, demonstrate the rapid progress we’re making to utilise new technology for keeping Britain secure at home and strong abroad.”

Dr Hollinshead said “by bringing together multiple domains and partners, we’re not just collecting data – we’re creating the foundation for mission success and operational advantage that will protect our forces for decades to come.”