The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and Google Cloud have signed a memorandum of understanding (MoU) as part of a new agreement to accelerate the adoption of AI in the UK defence sector.
Dstl said the collaboration will focus on five key areas, the first of which involves giving it access to Google Cloud’s AI technologies and people to accelerate their adoption.
Second is to broaden the supply chain by opening access to, and supporting engagement between, Dstl and the Google Cloud Marketplace, including Google Cloud’s wider partner ecosystem.
Third involves supporting training and upskilling with Google led learning and development opportunities tailored to the defence domain. This will come with support for wider ongoing Dstl initiatives to transform itself into an ‘AI ready’ organisation.
Fourth is to increase cross-sector technology transfer by enabling Dstl to use Google Cloud’s technologies across civilian applications and other industries, exploring where tools developed for other purposes can help solve UK defence challenges.
Finally, the two bodies will share new ways of working and proven approaches to creating an AI research environment, including tools and infrastructure, technology watch and horizon scanning, and talent attraction and retention.
Significant step
Dstl’s chief executive Dr Paul Hollinshead said: “As one of the most transformative and ubiquitous new technologies, AI has enormous potential to transform societies. Dstl’s collaboration with Google Cloud is one of the significant steps Dstl is taking to prioritise research, development, and experimentation of technologies in line with our commitment to safe and responsible AI.”
“Last year, the Defence AI Centre (DAIC) was formed to accelerate defence’s ability to harness the game changing power of AI. This collaboration is an exciting opportunity for Google Cloud and defence to work together for a secure and prosperous UK.”
Helen Kelisky, UK and Ireland managing director of Google Cloud, commented: “AI has potential to assist the ministry in a broad range of use cases, including cybersecurity, disaster response, and employee productivity. We look forward to helping Dstl in its commitment to using AI boldly and responsibly.”
