NATO is integrating emerging and disruptive technologies such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and autonomous systems to uphold operational superiority. The organisation’s strategic focus on technological advancement through collaborative initiatives ensures a technological edge in defence applications.
NATO Continues to Embrace Emerging and Disruptive Technologies
NATO is increasingly integrating emerging and disruptive technologies (EDTs) such as artificial intelligence, quantum technologies, and autonomous systems to maintain operational superiority and adaptability. This focus on technological advancement is central to NATO’s latest strategies and collaborative initiatives with academia, the private sector, and civil society.
In February 2021, NATO Defence Ministers endorsed “Foster and Protect: NATO’s Coherent Implementation Strategy on Emerging and Disruptive Technologies.” The strategy highlights the dual-use of technologies for both commercial and defense applications, ensuring the Alliance’s technological edge. Key EDTs identified include AI, autonomous systems, quantum technologies, biotechnology, and next-generation communications networks.
Significant milestones include the launch of the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA) in 2021 and the establishment of the EUR 1 billion NATO Innovation Fund. DIANA, operational since 2022, engages with innovators to address critical defense and security challenges through competitive industry challenges. The NATO Innovation Fund provides venture capital to start-ups developing critical dual-use technologies.
NATO’s strategic engagement with the EU and UN aims to address mutual technological challenges, and various advisory and implementation bodies ensure the responsible development and use of AI and other key technologies. These include the NATO Data and AI Review Board and the NATO Advisory Group on Emerging and Disruptive Technologies.
By fostering innovation and safeguarding against technological threats, NATO continues to adapt to the evolving landscape of global security, ensuring interoperability and military advantage among its member nations.
Language: English
Words: 225
Audience: General readers
Perspective: Informative
Tone: Neutral and Factual
