Nations and big tech to train AI using ‘gold dust’ data from Ukraine
Foreign states and technology firms are scrambling for data from the Ukraine war so they can train the next-generation of AI models that might be used in defence and national security
Global powers and leading technology corporations are racing to harness Ukraine's wartime data to develop advanced AI systems for future conflicts. Experts describe videos of drone strikes and sensor data as "gold dust" crucial for training AI. Last month, Ukraine entered into a data-sharing agreement with the UK to access a wealth of information from drones, cameras, and sensors amassed since Russia launched its full-scale invasion.
This deal is set to grant the UK early access to Ukraine's "Avengers AI" model, which aids in identifying adversaries and their equipment in real-time, significantly reducing the time required to execute attacks. The UK believes that the data will transform their defence capabilities and contribute to Ukraine's security. Peter Lee, a researcher at the University of Portsmouth, UK, emphasizes the immense value of this data for creating a wide array of defence and military tools, asserting that it surpasses the value of the UK's previous support to Ukraine.
Ukraine's extensive use of drones, both in combat and behind enemy lines, has generated an abundance of sensor data analyzed by AI to identify strategic weaknesses and opportunities. This information is relayed back to troops on the front lines and defence contractors, enabling them to autonomously guide drones, monitor thousands of video feeds, and assess the effectiveness of military hardware.
The Ukrainian government launched an AI organisation, "A1," in March, long before the recent data-sharing announcement, showcasing the country's proactive approach to AI integration in defence. China is also reportedly leveraging data from the opposing side, raising concerns about a potential strategic advantage. As the UK's relationship with the US becomes increasingly strained, Ukraine may strengthen ties with other allies, including those offering access to AI data.
Big technology firms, such as Palantir, Clearview AI, and Scale AI, have already engaged with Ukraine, leveraging their expertise in data sharing to support its war efforts. While Ukraine's efforts to collect and analyze data have significantly advanced their technological capabilities, the harsh realities of war persist, with troops still navigating treacherous trenches.
Written by urgent.news from New Scientist's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
