The unmanned future

The future is unmanned and autonomous. In an autonomous system, machines solve tasks on their own, and large sums are invested in such technology, both civilian and military. With investment comes change, and the limits of what autonomous systems are capable of are constantly shifting. Modern computers can collect and analyse large amounts of information in order to give us a better understanding of the situation as well as possible solutions. Driving assistance in modern cars and the self-driving cars of the future are just two examples of this technology. For the Armed Forces to fully benefit from this development, we need to understand the technology. Only when we know the limitations and possibilities of this technology will we be able to assess how and to what extent to included it in future defence systems.

The development of new technology in weapon systems must take place within the framework of international laws and regulations. Both the military and civilian community have an interest in seeing new technology be safe, secure and under adequate human control. To this end, the defence sector can contribute with expertise and suggestions to the civil society. This edition of VITEN provides a popular scientific introduction to what autonomy is and how artificial intelligence and new technology are used to make vehicles autonomous. In order to build knowledge and experience, FFI has developed autonomous research vessels that can interpret their surroundings, plan where to drive, collaborate with others and make their own decisions when solving tasks. The civilian and military side share these basic technologies and needs. The civil society, the Armed Forces and the Norwegian industry would do well to harvest these synergies.

Autonomous systems are not yet robust enough for most military operations. The surroundings are simply too complicated and inhospitable. For the simplest tasks and environments, however, autonomy is already highly relevant. FFI, the Armed Forces and defence industry are collaborating on many projects, including developing an unmanned concept for finding sea mines without personnel present in the minefields. We already see advanced automated systems in missiles, missile defence and in our new F-35 fighter jets. Another example is the Norwegian Joint Strike Missile, where algorithms help the missile in finding the right target based on criteria defined by the operator. The goal of developing and using autonomous systems is not to replace people, but to combine technology and people so that they interact and complement each other. We expect that technology development will provide operational benefits in several new areas in the years to come.