Ready Player UK? AI in the Ukraine and the UK’s AI Fighting Power

by Lt Col James Corns

As artificial intelligence reshapes the character of warfare, this article by Lt Col James Corns offers a timely and incisive analysis of its operational impact in Ukraine and the implications for UK Defence. Drawing on expert insights and the Components of Fighting Power framework, the piece explores how AI is accelerating decision-making, redefining procurement, and challenging cultural norms within the Ministry of Defence. It is a compelling call for strategic action to transform the UK from AI-ready to AI-native—before the next fight begins.

The rumble of distant artillery and the hum of overhead drones in Ukraine offer a stark preview of 21st-century conflict. Far from being confined to science fiction, Artificial Intelligence (AI) is fundamentally reshaping the character of modern warfare, proving its worth as a critical tool for decision-making, analysis, and even autonomous operations. For the UK Ministry of Defence (MoD), understanding these real-world lessons from the Russo-Ukraine War is not merely academic; it is essential for transforming its ambitious AI strategies into tangible fighting power.

This journal article is a summary of a defence research paper, drawing on extensive analysis and insights from anonymised experts across the UK's defence AI ecosystem, it delves into the complex challenges and opportunities facing the MoD as it seeks to integrate and exploit AI effectively, using the robust framework of the Components of Fighting Power. The full dissertation will be published on the Defence Academic Research Environment (DARE). 

Link to full article.