MPs have urged the Ministry of Defence (MoD) to consider using AI on the battlefield after seeing effective use of the technology in Ukraine.

Kyiv has used AI to analyse intelligence and assess combat scenarios with Russian forces. Ukrainian developers are also working on drones using AI throughout their flight and at the final targeting stage.

But the Commons’ Defence Committee, which includes MPs from the three major parties, said the UK risked its military capabilities “falling behind” if it did not make greater use of AI.

“The use of AI in Ukraine shows that it offers serious military advantage on the battlefield, and as AI becomes more widespread and sophisticated, it will change the way defence works, from the back office to the frontline,” said Emma Lewell-Buck, chair of the sub-committee on developing AI capacity.

“Harnessing AI for defence requires not just updated technology but an updated approach, and in today’s report, we call on the Ministry of Defence to transform itself...