UK minister stresses the need for Britain and NATO to lead in the AI arms race

Britain and its NATO partners must maintain a leading position in “the new AI arms race,” according to British cabinet office minister Pat McFadden, who will emphasize on Monday that Russian cybercriminals are increasingly targeting nations that support Ukraine.

Speaking at a NATO Cyber Defence Conference in London, McFadden will announce the establishment of a new Laboratory for AI security in the UK, aimed at developing enhanced cyber defense tools and improving intelligence on cyber attacks.

In his latest warning regarding Moscow’s escalation of cyber attacks on countries that back Ukraine, McFadden will urge the U.S.-led military alliance, along with businesses and institutions, to take all necessary measures to secure their digital infrastructures against what he describes as a more aggressive Russia.

“Cyber warfare has become a daily occurrence, where our defenses are under constant scrutiny,” he will state, based on excerpts from his forthcoming speech.

“The magnitude of the threat must be countered by our unwavering commitment to address it and safeguard our citizens and systems. Seventy-five years after its inception, the necessity for NATO is more pronounced than ever.”

Moscow has consistently denied involvement in cyberattacks, with officials dismissing such claims as efforts to foster anti-Russian sentiment.

McFadden will assert that AI could be weaponized against nations supporting Ukraine since Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022, intensifying what he refers to as the ongoing reality of cyber warfare faced by Britain and its allies.

AI is already transforming various aspects of life, including national security. However, as we advance this technology, there is a risk that it could be turned against us, as our adversaries are also exploring its applications in both physical and cyber warfare, he will state.

As Chancellor of the Duchy of Lancaster, McFadden is tasked with overseeing British national and cyber security.

The newly established laboratory, backed by an initial government investment of £8.22 million ($10.3 million), aims to unite academic and governmental experts to evaluate the implications of AI on national security and to gain insights into its utilization by Russia.

“Let there be no doubt: the United Kingdom and other nations present are closely monitoring Russia. We are fully aware of their actions and are actively countering their assaults both publicly and covertly,” McFadden will assert. “This is why we stand with Ukraine in its struggle to determine its own future.”