MoD launches AI Model Arena to speed up defence procurement

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has launched a new AI Model Arena, a secure digital platform designed to transform how Defence evaluates, selects and procures artificial intelligence technologies.

Developed by the Defence AI Centre (DAIC) in partnership with UK firm Advai, the Arena aims to cut lengthy procurement cycles and give suppliers a faster, more objective route to demonstrating capability.

The platform will allow the MoD to test up to 100 AI models simultaneously, benchmarking them against real Defence use cases and providing rapid, data-backed assessments across four categories – performance, reliability, robustness and security. Evaluations will align with Defence requirements such as JSP 936, offering an early-stage filter before more detailed testing takes place.

The aim is to replace paper-based bid assessments with a “demonstration by doing” approach, enabling Defence teams to see how tools behave in realistic scenarios and allowing suppliers to iterate more quickly based on feedback.

“This initiative is central to our ambition to adopt AI responsibly and at pace,” said Commodore Rachel Singleton, Head of the DAIC. “I encourage all AI suppliers to engage with the AI Model Arena. This is your opportunity to showcase your capabilities, drive innovation, and help shape the future of Defence AI.”

The Arena builds on earlier collaboration between the Royal Navy, Advai and the Home Office’s Accelerated Capability Environment (ACE), which conducted independent, side-by-side testing of multiple AI models. The MoD says that approach strengthened confidence in procurement decisions and reduced risk – lessons now being scaled across Defence.

A key ambition is to remove long-standing bottlenecks that have slowed the adoption of advanced technologies. By automating parts of the evaluation process, the Arena supports Action 43 of the government’s 2025 AI Opportunities Plan and aligns with the Strategic Defence Review’s call for faster uptake of cutting-edge capabilities.

The MoD also emphasises that the platform is vendor-neutral, intended to create a level playing field and support UK SMEs by highlighting where their niche capabilities outperform larger competitors. Officials say the approach will help strengthen the UK’s sovereign AI ecosystem while giving frontline personnel access to safe, compliant and operationally ready systems sooner.

By redefining how defence engages with industry, the AI Model Arena is expected to speed up procurement, strengthen industrial partnerships, and ensure warfighters can rely on advanced AI tools to operate and respond effectively in a rapidly shifting threat landscape.

The DAIC plans for the AI Model Arena to be fully live ahead of DAIC Connect 2026, taking place in March next year.