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Australia (Commonwealth)_In a landmark demonstration of global collaboration, the Australian military has partnered with the United Kingdom and the United States to exhibit the functionality of autonomous assets combined with artificial intelligence (AI) in the region of South Australia. Named the Trusted Operation of Robotic Vehicles (TORVICE), this joint endeavor aimed to highlight the capabilities of unmanned robotic vehicles executing missions through sophisticated AI software, all while ensuring continuous network connectivity in intricate land-based scenarios.
The TORVICE exhibition entailed subjecting unmanned ground vehicles to a range of challenges, including electro-optical laser, electronic warfare, and navigation and timing obstacles. These challenges were crafted to evaluate the resilience of autonomous systems in authentic and challenging environments. Additionally, certain robotic systems assumed roles as autonomous multi-domain launchers and larger unmanned vehicles, replicating long-range precision fires and associated missions without the utilization of live weapons.
Guy Powell, Principal Adviser at the UK Defence Science and Technology (DST) Laboratory, underscored the importance of “networked autonomy” demonstrated by these systems within the realm of contemporary warfare. Powell emphasized, “Robotic and autonomous systems have the potential to revolutionize the battlefield, serving as a force multiplier while diminishing risks to warfighters. TORVICE enables us to comprehend the operation of robotic autonomous systems in contested environments and enhance their resilience. Collaborating across three nations will expedite the development of capable and robust systems.”
Shane Canney, Chief of UK DST Land and Integrated Force, further clarified the significance of the TORVICE project in the broader context of the trilateral AUKUS strategic cooperation. He expressed, “Gaining insights into how robotic vehicles respond in contested environments accelerates our collective knowledge and aids in refining the system to counter such challenges. Safely and ethically transitioning trusted robotic capabilities to our warfighters is a paramount priority.”
The TORVICE initiative aligns with the AUKUS strategy, spanning terrestrial, naval, airborne, and digital operations in the future. This collaborative effort signifies a united endeavor to elevate the capabilities of autonomous systems across diverse and demanding scenarios, setting the stage for the integration of cutting-edge technology into military operations.
In parallel developments, the Australian government recently inked contracts with 11 local companies to propel the advancement of drones and corresponding production plans, signaling a commitment to fortifying autonomous capabilities. This follows the successful trial of robotic armored personnel carriers with integrated remote weapon systems by the Australian army in October 2023, showcasing capabilities for autonomous travel and neutralization.
Australian academia has also played a pivotal role in advancing military autonomy. In October 2023, researchers introduced an algorithm aimed at safeguarding unmanned military robots from cyberattacks, addressing critical cybersecurity concerns in autonomous systems. Notably, four months earlier, the Australian army achieved a milestone with the inaugural deployment of an autonomous truck convoy on public roads across Victoria.
The TORVICE project and its associated initiatives underscore the dedication of the participating nations to remain at the forefront of autonomous military technology. Through collaborative efforts and a commitment to fostering innovation domestically, Australia, the UK, and the US are collectively contributing to the development of resilient and robust autonomous systems that are poised to shape the future landscape of modern warfare.
