Royal Navy launches team to test AI, laser weapons, and advanced technologies at sea (X @DefenceHQ)
The Royal Navy of the United Kingdom has created the Office of Disruptive Capabilities and Technologies (DCTO) to accelerate the adoption of advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, and directed energy weapons.
The new team brings together experts from previous naval sectors, such as NavyX and the AI cell, with the mission to quickly test and integrate these innovations into naval operations, focusing on practical solutions to urgent operational challenges.
The first DCTO project is already underway, inspired by lessons from the war in Ukraine, and includes the use of autonomous systems and specific training. The experimental ship “XV Patrick Blackett” will continue to be used as a floating laboratory, and a new Experimental Squadron of the Fleet has been created to test future technologies, such as unmanned vessels, AI systems, and laser weapons, under the command of a naval warfare officer.
For naval leaders like Vice Admiral Sir Martin Connell, rapid technological advancement is essential. He advocates for reducing bureaucracy and increasing agility in development processes, emphasizing that the creation of the DCTO is part of the Navy’s commitment to continuous innovation.
The office also plans to explore long-term technologies such as quantum computing and next-generation nuclear energy to keep the Navy competitive in the future.
Source: UK Defence Journal | Photo: X @DefenceHQ | This content was created with the help of AI and reviewed by the editorial team
