Today's defence related news includes coverage of the Defence Secretary's announcement of £66 million of funding for three new robotics projects.
Autonomous Warrior Mini Drones
Speaking at the Autonomous Warriors Exploitation Conference yesterday at the Science Museum, Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson announced funding for three new Army robotics projects; mini drones, to provide troops with eye-in-the-sky visibility; remote-control army fighting vehicles; and autonomous logistics vehicles to deliver supplies to troops in war zones.
The Telegraph, Times and Sun all report on the introduction of a fleet of tiny drones that are smaller than a human hand will be used by the Army to boost battlefield surveillance. The Telegraph writes that this technology has been designed to enter enemy lines without risking British troops’ lives.
The Times also reported on concerns with funding for Army equipment. The MOD is spending £18.4bn on land equipment in the next ten years, and the overall Army equipment programme has not reduced between 2017 and 2018.
Defence Secretary Gavin Williamson said:
This announcement is a clear demonstration of how our Armed Forces are reaping the benefits from our new multi-million Transformation Fund. Each of these new technologies will enhance our Army’s capabilities whilst reducing the risk to our personnel and I’m delighted we will be revolutionising frontline technology by the end of the year.
The MOD has always embraced pioneering technology and this fund will ensure the UK stays at the forefront of global military capabilities and ahead of our adversaries.
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