CODE Participates in the InnoVision Kickoff in Vienna

18 November 2024

To mark the 25th anniversary of the Military Cyber Center, the first installment of the forward-looking “InnoVision” event series, organized by Directorate 6 ICT & Cyber of the Austrian Armed Forces, took place at the National Defense Academy in Vienna. Numerous experts from research, industry, and the military exchanged views on topics such as “Artificial Intelligence in Defense” and “Quantum Technology and Post-Quantum Cryptography.”

PD Dr. Corinna Schmitt from RI CODE & NCC-DE participated in the first panel and discussed the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in the defense sector with representatives from industry and the Austrian Armed Forces: Dr. Elisabeth Hoffberger-Pippan (PRIF), Raphael Dachs (Argus AI), Dr. Jeanette Gorzala (Act.AI. Now), Colonel Daniel Hikes-Wurm (MAS MA, BMLV), and Brigadier Anulf Kopeinig (BMLV). Particular emphasis was placed on the dual-use benefits of AI developments, current research opportunities at the EU level, and the call for bilateral cooperation between countries and across application areas.

AI systems are increasingly becoming part of everyday life. Critical system processes and functionalities are increasingly dependent on AI. AI is being given a great deal of trust — including with regard to availability and error-free operation. These high standards are particularly relevant in the context of defense. This prompted lively discussions on many important and forward-looking aspects, both among experts and with the audience. The discussion did not focus on the limitations of current technology, but rather called for regulations and actions from all involved stakeholders. In addition to the efficient use of autonomous AI threat analysis systems, this included creating the necessary framework conditions for the deployment and acceptance of AI-supported systems. Furthermore, the discussion addressed the need for greater integration between humans and machines, as well as the balance between system reliability and data verification. The panelists reached the consensus that AI will become increasingly essential in the future — both in matters of defense and in supporting decision-making processes. At the same time, they cautioned against relying too heavily on the new technology and emphasized the need to constantly scrutinize processes and data. Likewise, they stressed the importance of a continuous exchange of data and expertise — including across borders. Only in this way, they argued, can we collectively prepare ourselves against attacks in cyberspace, on critical infrastructure, and on the battlefield.

^{Photo: © Österreichisches Bundesheer/Direktion IKT und Cyber}