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The Status Quo of Technological Innovation in the Defense Industry

CIO Review Europe | Wednesday, April 12, 2023

For many years, the defence industry was at the forefront of cutting-edge innovation that shaped both military and commercial applications (such as GPS or the internet). But today, the defence industry must compete with other commercial sectors to produce technological advances and attract world-class talent.

FREMONT, CA: The global military establishment is undergoing considerable changes and utilising technological developments to enhance capabilities. To improve defence operations and boost military effectiveness, major themes include artificial intelligence (AI), robotics, and the Internet of Things (IoT). Hybrid strategies that also incorporate cyber warfare and other frontiers are progressively replacing conventional methods of warfare in the modern world.

Artificial Intelligence

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The use of AI in defence improves military computing thinking for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) tasks. The use of autonomous weapon systems and equipment safety management by computer vision reduces the number of casualties among soldiers. Defence producers can test new iterations of military products and provide predictive maintenance for military assets by using digital twins and machine learning. Startups are also creating self-organizing intelligent systems that cooperate in the direction of a strategic goal using swarm computing.

Additive Manufacturing

Without mentioning additive manufacturing, technology innovation in the defence industry is not possible. Although 3D printing has been used in defence manufacturing for some time, the adoption of the technology is growing quickly. Although additional uses including production components, jigs, fixtures and tooling, repair and maintenance, research and development, and bridge production are expanding swiftly, prototyping is still the most popular use case. 

Using 3D printing in defence manufacturing provided a competitive advantage only a few years ago. But there will be more chances to use additive manufacturing as new technologies and materials are released. However, 3D printing allows the defence industry to:

• Decentralise production and manufacturing

• Consolidate the Bill of Materials and simplify parts

• Lower supply chain expenses

Big Data and the Internet of Things

One of the technological advancements that the sector can use is the Internet of Things (IoT), where split-second choices could have serious repercussions. The term, which is customised for the business, is frequently referred to as the Internet of Military Things or the Internet of Battlefield Things, as it is in other sectors. Everything from jet engines, weapons, trucks, soldiers, and more can be used as data sources. This information is necessary to develop a successful plan that makes all efforts more effective, secure, and manageable.  For instance, the sensors built into a soldier's uniform, helmet, and other gear might record biometric information, contextual data, and even specifics about the soldier's emotional and physical state. The possibility of the soldier's survival or lethality can be increased by collecting all this information.  

Edge computing appears to be the answer to quickly sifting through all the data. When data is collected, analysed, and provided near the devices, real-time insights are possible. And better decisions may result from these insights.   

Augmented and Virtual Reality

Technology that has been transferred from commercial to the military application is augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR). Gaming may be the most predominant application of AR/VR, but it's a perfect fit for a field that relies heavily on simulations and training. The development of headsets and game-based technology has made it possible for the defence sector to offer affordable but effective training and simulation programs. Governments can then use the most recent technology to create immersive, repeatable, and adaptable experiences like flight or combat training where they are needed, cutting costs. AR/VR will benefit the defence sector's training needs.

Beyond training potential, AR/VR can also increase the effectiveness of soldiers in combat. Data can be layered into a battlefield using glasses or headphones, giving soldiers access to mapping data, movement indicators, and more. Additionally, maintenance or repair instructions can be live-streamed from the headsets when a piece of equipment breaks down on the field.

Blockchain

Blockchain offers data security while distributing data to all parties involved. Because of this, defence entrepreneurs are developing blockchain-based systems to preserve sensitive military information and defend against online threats. Device monitoring, streamlined procurement, and supply chain security are further industrial uses for blockchain technology. Dealing with defence contractors dramatically lowers the danger of fraud or corruption due to smart contracts.

Robotics and Autonomous Systems (RAS)

A few essential goals for militaries include securing forces, improving situational awareness, lowering the physical and mental stress of soldiers, and aiding mobility over difficult terrain. Armed forces can accomplish these goals and dominate the terrain, secure the populace, and build on gains by using RAS technologies. RAS is becoming more crucial to ensuring freedom of movement and mission success with the least amount of risk to personnel. The usage of drones improves situational awareness on the battlefield. Additionally, multi-mission robots make it easier to clear landmines, conduct search and rescue missions, destroy explosive ordnance, and provide logistical assistance.

Cyber Warfare

Cyber attacks frequently target military systems, which might potentially result in the loss of sensitive data and harm to those systems. The frequency and severity of cyberattacks have progressively increased over the past few years. Prescriptive security technology identifies prospective threats and neutralises them before they influence defensive cyber warfare capabilities. Major areas of study include connected military equipment security, cyber protection for important organisations, and nuclear security. Additionally, militaries are developing offensive cyber warfare capabilities, including phishing and ransomware.

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