French army ministry to set up centre for defence-related AI

Paris, November 12 - France's Ministry of Armed Forces announced plans on Thursday to establish an international center aimed at promoting and supporting the increasing utilization of artificial intelligence (AI) in defense, as Europe seeks to bolster its military technology prowess and lessen its dependence on the United States.

The ministry envisions the center, slated to commence operations in summer 2027, gaining recognition from NATO, according to an official briefing. AI technology has become pivotal in modern warfare, post-Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, enabling rapid battlefield decision-making through the analysis of massive data sets gathered from drones, satellites, and various sensors.

However, Europe remains dependent on U.S.-based corporations, such as Palantir, for much of its AI-driven military software. The ministry has yet to determine the funding and membership structure for the center and has extended an invitation to international representatives for a conference next week to detail its initiative plans.