Delivering autonomous systems at pace and scale in an evolving threat environment
When speaking at the Institution of Engineering and Technology (IET) and the Royal United Services Institute (RUSI), Sky Moore addressed one of the defining challenges facing defence and engineering organisations today.
The pace of change in modern conflict environments has accelerated dramatically. Threats that once evolved over years can now shift within months, weeks or even days. Emerging technologies and changing operational requirements mean that traditional engineering approaches are often no longer sufficient.
For engineers and technology leaders, the challenge is clear: how do we innovate rapidly while maintaining the safety, reliability and operational effectiveness required of autonomous systems?
Engineering for continuous adaptation
Historically, complex systems followed lengthy development cycles. Requirements were established upfront and solutions were designed and tested. Capability was then delivered through carefully planned milestones, and while this model provided assurance and control, today it struggles to keep pace within rapidly evolving conflict environments.
Autonomous systems require a new mindset. Rather than designing for a fixed set of circumstances, engineers must create adaptable platforms capable of evolving alongside emerging threats. This means applying new methods of engineering, such as parallel experimentation to allow the different teams to work simultaneously to create a functional product.
Further thinking
The need for adaptable, scalable and rapidly deployable autonomous systems has never been greater. The next generation of engineers must possess a diverse blend of skills beyond systems engineering.
Saab continues to invest into initiatives that nurture the future of emerging talent in STEM recognising that the engineering community has a pivotal role to play in responding to this challenge.
The talks sparked valuable discussion on the future of autonomy within the defence industry and the need to rethink how platforms are designed and developed. They also demonstrated BlueBear’s ability to engage and inspire students, further strengthening awareness and interest in the company.
Sky Moore VP Innovation Programmes Saab UK, Managing Director BlueBear – A Saab Company Said: A sole company will not solve the current problems within the defence industry, partnerships are necessary to combine strengths and knowledge to create an ecosystem of capability to solve the common goal: keeping people and society safe.