The University of Lincoln has been singled out to mastermind an advanced project based on artificial intelligence (AI), with the purpose of bolstering the UK’s national security. Lincoln is leading a consortium made up of seven UK universities, including esteemed institutions such as Oxford and Cambridge, as they seek to apply AI to wargaming situations. This will aid the government and military in handling national security issues, including terrorism and cyber threats. Deputy vice chancellor of the University of Lincoln, Julian Free, emphasised that the goal of the project is to refine decision-making by examining both ally and enemy strategies.
The Ministry of Defence has donated a significant £1 million research grant to support this venture. The knowledge derived from these wargames could have a substantial impact on the government’s reaction to upcoming national security problems, encompassing military and civilian services such as the police. These scenarios could vary from antagonistic state actions to economic disturbances or environmental crises. Mr Free underlined the significance of the project in augmenting the UK’s intellectual and technological expertise to confront the rapidly changing threats seen in current conflict areas.
Fiona Strens, head of the university’s centre for defence and security AI, outlined that the plan will exploit AI technologies initially created for Lincolnshire’s vigorous food production and processing sectors. She commented, “This focus shift illustrates our dedication to tackling defence issues with the same innovation that has been advantageous to local businesses.” Despite the Ministry of Defence’s continued use of AI, the rapid progression of AI technology necessitates comprehensive research to stay ahead.
The University of Lincoln is already an instrumental participant in AI research, working in partnership with 84 local AI companies, with many established by its graduates. It is also a substantial member of The Greater Lincolnshire Regional Defence and Security Cluster and DecisionWorks, both fostering co-operation across academic, public and private sectors to generate new research and business development opportunities.
This article has been adapted by The Lincoln Post from original reporting by www.bbc.com.
