NATO Chief Scientist delivers remarks at ‘Post-Madrid: NATO’s Tech Future & Student Challenge Final’

Dr Bryan Wells, NATO Chief Scientist, participated as a guest of honour at the “Post-Madrid: NATO’s Tech Future & Student Challenge Final” event last week, held as part of the “Safer Tomorrow: Security starts with YOU(TH) Initiative”. The event, held in Madrid on 23 May, addressed key questions related to international security in light of emerging and disruptive technologies (EDTs), including NATO’s role in the ongoing global technological race, and how NATO can establish itself as a leader in the responsible use of EDTs. It was organised by the Centre for the Governance of Change at IE University and sponsored by NATO.

In a presentation delivered at the event, Dr Wells described the rapidly evolving landscape of science and technology (S&T), emphasising the shift from defence-driven technological innovation to more active involvement from private companies. He noted that combining various technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms and big data, is vital to harnessing their full potential, and stressed the need for a broader perspective on S&T to incorporate disciplines like social sciences and psychology. He also engaged in a spirited conversation with Mr Manuel Muñiz, Provost of IE University, about technological disruption in the international security landscape.

“NATO must look at the whole range of technologies in order to fulfil what was mentioned at the Madrid Summit: maintaining NATO’s technological edge”, Dr Wells said in his remarks.

 

Conceived following last year’s Madrid Summit, the Student Challenge provides a unique platform for young innovators to present proposals on the responsible use of EDTs. This year’s Challenge attracted 43 proposals across a diverse range of topics related to NATO’s priorities. Six selected finalists presented their ideas to the audience and distinguished jury at the Student Challenge Global Final. Their proposals described the establishment of an AI Planning Group (AIPG) to centralise AI policies and enforce the responsible use of AI in defence; the importance of international efforts and regulation for EDTs; the denuclearization of hypersonic technology; strategies for maritime security; the adoption of green technologies; and the use of unmanned systems for surveillance and early warning.

Quynh Dinh and Giancarlo Dá-re were named winners of the Challenge for their proposals on AIPG as a tool for NATO to lead the responsible use of EDTs, and procuring unmanned green technologies for interoperable surveillance as a way for NATO to promote green technologies in its climate and innovation policy agenda.

The event also featured jury presentations from a wide range of experts, including Ms Sari Rautio, Ambassador of Finland to Spain. Ms Irene Blázquez, Director of the Centre for the Governance of Change at IE University, delivered opening remarks, with GB Juan Ramón Sabaté Aragonés, Director of Studies at CSEDEN, making closing remarks.

“I would like to congratulate all of the finalists for their outstanding contributions to this inspiring event, and especially to Ms Dinh and Mr Dá-re for their remarkable proposals,” Dr Wells said. “Their innovative ideas on the responsible use of EDTs and promotion of green technologies exemplify the STO’s commitment to shaping a secure and sustainable future.”​

Published by STO

30/05/2023