A laboratory to test applications: this is how Defence looks at AI

An Artificial Intelligence Laboratory for Defence that will be operational at the end of 2026. And which will not just be a study and policy structure but, as Defence Minister Guido Crosetto explained at the question time held in the Senate on Thursday 9 April, "a permanent operational platform for testing and integrating courses of action at the scale and applications most relevant to Defence". Here, then, in the minister's indications, is how the government intends to operationalise the Artificial Intelligence Defence Strategy (2026 edition), the policy document approved by Crosetto himself on 16 January.

'To ensure the full and rapid implementation of the artificial intelligence strategy,' Crosetto clarified, 'I have set up an authorising committee with a very clear mandate. On this basis, the committee will proceed with the preliminary assessment and definition of the project to set up the Defence Artificial Intelligence Laboratory, destined to become a national centre of excellence for innovation'.

The minister also specified that there will be 'a phase of implementation of the first high-impact initiatives through pilot projects in the areas of decision support, command, logistics, maintenance, and the use of advanced models to support staff activities'.

The document 'AI and Defence - Defence Strategy for Artificial Intelligence', edition 2026, is a strategic policy document aimed at guiding the integration of artificial intelligence in all areas of defence in an organic and systemic way. The aim of the document is to promote the development of autonomous technological capabilities, strengthen human capital and foster innovation in organisational processes and operational capabilities.

The plan is divided into four strands: operations, organisation, training and research, and industry, with the aim of rapidly integrating AI into decision-making processes, command and control systems, and the national industrial ecosystem with the creation of new structures, including an artificial intelligence office, a dedicated laboratory, and a specific technology development fund. The document also envisages the development of advanced digital infrastructures and the deployment of innovative technologies capable of supporting decision-making and operational processes across the entire mission spectrum. "AI," reads the document, "emerges as an essential strategic element for the future of national defence, characterised by rapid technological evolution and growing geopolitical challenges. The Italian Defence recognises AI as an essential lever for strengthening its operational capabilities'.