The Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) and Google Cloud have announced that they will work in collaboration to advance the adoption of cloud and AI technologies in the UK defence sector. 

The Dstl works to provide science and technology (S&T) for the UK’s defence and security. The announcement was made by Paul Lincoln, the MOD’s Second Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (PUS) at the AI Summit during London Tech Week.

The memorandum of understanding (MOU) signed by both parties will focus on several key areas, including enabling Dstl to utilise Google Cloud’s AI resources; encouraging engagement between Dstl and the Google Cloud Marketplace; supporting training and upskilling with Google-led learning and development; enabling Dstl to explore how Google Cloud tech technologies developed  across civilian applications can help solve UK defence challenges; and developing new ways of working and to support a world-class AI research environment.

Dstl’s Chief Executive Paul Hollingshead said, “As one of the most transformative and ubiquitous new technologies, AI has enormous potential to transform societies. Dstl’s collaboration with Google Cloud is one of the significant steps Dstl is taking to prioritise research, development, and experimentation of technologies in line with our commitment to safe and responsible AI.”

“Last year, the UK Ministry of Defence formed the Defence AI Centre (DAIC) to accelerate the ministry’s ability to harness the game-changing power of AI. This collaboration is an exciting opportunity for Google Cloud and Dstl to work together for a secure and prosperous UK.”

Helen Kelisky, UKI, Managing Director, Google Cloud, added, “We are delighted to have signed an MOU with Dstl on this important initiative. AI has potential to assist the Ministry in a broad range of use cases, including cybersecurity, disaster response, and employee productivity. We look forward to helping Dstl in its commitment to using AI boldly and responsibly.”