Trends and Implications of Military Robotics
The Context
Recent advances in mechanics and artificial intelligence (AI) have allowed engineers to develop unmanned military robots. These breakthroughs are likely to impact the conduct of warfare in the future. Great powers like the United States, China, and Russia are at the forefront of the competition in military robotics systems. However, other military powers, such as Israel, Australia, Turkey, and the European Union, are also making significant investments in this domain. The study was achieved in November 2023.
The Aim of the Study
The study to the attention of the Swiss Drone and Robotics Centre (SDRC) of armasuisse has clarified the different definitions, and trends of military robotics and explored the most important developments of military robotics at the global and European level. It notably investigated European states’ institutional and structural capabilities to research, develop, and deploy military robotics. By analysing several European countries, the study then compared Switzerland with its peers, in terms of institutional structures and Research and Development (R&D) capacities. These findings were then compiled to understand better the implications in terms of the R&D and deployment of military robotic systems for the Swiss Armed Forces.
The Symposium
Following the successful study conducted in cooperation with the SDRC, the GCSP organised a two-day “Symposium on Military Robotics” in December 2024. The event brought together senior military leaders, technical experts and policymakers from ten European countries to analyse and discuss the contemporary issues and challenges related to the development, integration and use of robotic systems within the armed forces.
During the first day of the symposium, participants gave tailored presentations on their national approaches to military robotics: the United Kingdom, the European Defence Agency, Germany, the Czech Republic, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Estonia and Switzerland. The second day consisted of informal discussions and exchanges on common issues related to military robotics. Overall, the symposium sparked lively discussions between international leaders of military robotics and established a network of expertise in the field.
