A new Defence AI Taskforce has been set up to get AI-enabled technology and tools for the armed forces.

The Prime Minister announced the launch of the Rapid AI Delivery taskforce (RAID), a new unit set up to get robust AI-enabled tools into the hands of Britain’s Armed Forces faster than ever before.  

The Taskforce is designed to ensure that soldiers, sailors and aircrew have access to smarter technology that helps them make better decisions, take on dangerous tasks with less risk, and outpace adversaries who are rapidly developing their own AI capabilities.

Established jointly with the Defence Secretary and reporting directly to the Chief of the Defence Staff, the Taskforce is led by military and technical experts.

Initially, the Taskforce will focus on a small number of high-impact, pace-setting operational problems, including AI systems capable of processing intelligence data quickly to support operational decision-making and predictive analysis; and integrating AI into military planning processes to help deliver high-quality, adaptable plans at the speed required in modern operations.

To facilitate rapid development, the Taskforce has exemptions from standard financial and procedural controls.

Prime Minister Keir Starmer said: "Britain faces a clear choice: shape the AI revolution or let it shape us.

"That choice has far reaching impacts across our economy, our public services, and our national security.  

"So we are taking control of our future and launching a new taskforce to get cutting-edge AI into the hands of our Armed Forces safely, quickly, and responsibly.

"This is Britain at the forefront of innovation: backing our servicemen and women, driving innovation and keeping our country safe."

Chief of the Defence Staff, Air Chief Marshal Sir Richard Knighton, said: "With the Prime Minister’s direction, and with the Defence Secretary’s absolute support, we have set up the Rapid AI Delivery Taskforce to rapidly and responsibly deploy artificial intelligence-enabled capabilities to the UK’s Armed Forces.

"I am determined that TF RAID is not just another piece of window dressing, set up to give us comfort that something is happening. The focus of Taskforce RAID is on delivering necessary operational capability, quickly."