Big push for Artificial Intelligence! Defence minister launches 75 products based on AI to enhance defence capabilities

Defence Minister Rajnath Singh on Monday launched 75 newly-developed Artificial Intelligence (AI) products/technologies during the first-ever ‘AI in Defence’ (AIDef) symposium and exhibition. The event was organised by the Ministry of Defence under ‘Azadi Ka Amrit Mahotsav’ celebrations.

These products and technologies include use of AI Platform Automation; Autonomous/Unmanned/Robotics systems; BlockChain-based Automation; Command, Control, Communication, Computer & Intelligence, Surveillance & Reconnaissance; Cyber Security; Human Behavioural Analysis; Intelligent Monitoring Systems; Lethal Autonomous Weapon Systems; Logistics and Supply Chain Management, Operational Data Analytics; Manufacturing and Maintenance; Simulators/Test Equipment and speech/voice analysis using Natural Language Processing.

Three AI products developed by the DPSUs having dual use applications and good market potential, namely AI-enabled Voice Transcription/Analysis software developed by Bharat Electronics Limited; Driver Fatigue Monitoring System developed by Bharat Earth Movers Limited and AI-enabled evaluation of Welding defects in X-rays of Non-destructive Testing developed by Garden Reach Shipbuilders & Engineers were screened during the event.

Speaking on the importance of AI, the Defence Minister said "When there has been full human participation in wars, new autonomous weapons/systems have been developed with the help of AI applications. They can destroy enemy establishments without human control. AI-enabled military devices are capable of handling large amounts of data efficiently.

Speaking at the Symposium on ‘Artificial Intelligence in Defence’ in New Delhi. https://t.co/k9KMWQUMuW

— Rajnath Singh (@rajnathsingh) July 11, 2022

It is also proving to be very helpful in training the soldiers. In the coming times, Augmented and Virtual Reality technologies will also be used effectively."

Impressing upon the important role academia can play in strengthening the defence sector, the Defence Minister also stated that MoD research platforms, DRDO and DPSUs are providing support to various institutes in pursuing cutting edge AI research. He added that efforts are being made by DRDO to make strides in the field of AI through Technological Development Fund projects and ‘Dare to dream’ contests.

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Delivering the welcome address, Defence Secretary Dr Ajay Kumar emphasised on the need to encourage the use of AI in defence, reiterating the commitment of MoD to make all efforts in this direction to ensure that the Armed Forces are equipped with state-of-the-art technology. 

He stated that a task force was established in 2018 for strategic integration of AI in defence and had submitted its recommendations within three months. These recommendations were implemented through the Defence AI Council, headed by the Defence minister. 

Minister of State (Defence) Ajay Bhatt and along with high ranking officials from armed forces and Ministry of Defence were present on the occasion.