Minister of National Defence Dovilė Šakalienė met with U.S. defence industry and AI technology companies, as well as representatives of the U.S. Army Artificial Intelligence Integration Center (AI2C) in Pittsburgh. The meetings centered on the U.S. experience in AI, autonomic and robotic solutions applied in the military, as well as opportunities for joint scientific research and experimental development projects, technology transfer and industry partnerships, which would strengthen Lithuania’s defence capacity.
“Visiting such centers and new contacts in the U.S. defence industry hi-tech sector not only broadens one’s horizons but also builds a view about warfare breakthrough and future battlefield possibilities. It also opens up opportunity to solve the challenges of today and strengthening the U.S.-European market cooperation,” said Minister D. Šakalienė.
During the visit, Minister met with representatives of defence industry in Pittsburgh: Near Earth Autonomy, KEF Robotics, Lovelace AI, Carnegie Robotics, National Engineering Center ir National Robotics Engineering Consortium.
D. Šakalienė also paid a visit to the Artificial Intelligence Integration Center established as part of the U.S Army AI Strategy. AI2C plays a key role in the integration of AI and machine learning technology in military capability and builds a bridge between the academia, industry companies and innovation hubs. Its activity rests in three major areas: capacity building, AI integration and product development.
The Ministry of National Defence pursues a defence industry development policy targeting four strategic areas: production of ammunition and explosive, UAV and UAV jamming equipment, tactical vehicles and their maintenance, and maritime defence.
At the same time, Lithuania invests in the long-term technological development is such areas as autonomous systems, military AI, sensor and photonic technology, and secure communication. The initiatives are aimed at strengthening national security, increasing supply chain resilience, boost technological innovation and develop cooperation with NATO Allies, in particular, the United States.
Aiming for the widest spectrum possible weaponry production and maintenance in Lithuania, the Ministry of National Defence actively supports strategic investment projects in defence industry and shapes a favorable regulatory and investment environment through defence cooperation, the Green Corridor defence industry production development, and technology transfer agreements.
