Chief of Defence Intelligence Speaks at RUSI on the Nature of Future Threats
Adrian Bird, Chief of Defence Intelligence at the UK’s Ministry of Defence, addressed an audience of RUSI members and the press at 61 Whitehall.
Mr Bird reflected on the achievements and challenges that have shaped the organisation's history over its 60-year history, as well as its vital role in anticipating and combatting future threats in an increasingly complex international security environment.
The event was moderated by Matthew Savill, Director of Military Sciences at RUSI. Following Mr Bird’s address, he and a panel of Defence Intelligence senior officials continued the discussion and took questions from the audience.
Turning in his address to the threats facing the UK, Mr Bird said:
Right now, we face a more dangerous geopolitical environment than we have ever faced before, and our adversaries are arguably more capable and numerous. In this context, defence intelligence’s role… is becoming ever more critical. Our allies and partners… are transforming and developing technology quickly and effectively. To remain a credible partner, we must match that pace.
Mr Bird continued:
With rapid developments in artificial intelligence and other areas, the UK should not assume that it will have an overriding technology advantage in future conflicts. Going forwards, strategic competition between the great powers and the rise of a broader range of assertive state actors will place stress on the existing architectures of the international system… to respond to this, Defence Intelligence will need to continue to invest in technical capabilities, particularly on the automation and analysis of extremely large volumes of data.
Adrian Bird, Chief of Defence Intelligence at the UK’s Ministry of Defence
About RUSI
The Royal United Services Institute (RUSI) is the world’s oldest and the UK’s leading defence and security think tank. Our mission is to inform, influence and enhance public debate to help build a safer and more stable world.
A unique institution, founded in 1831 by the Duke of Wellington, RUSI embodies nearly two centuries of forward thinking, free discussion, and careful reflection on international affairs and defence and security matters.
RUSI is a British institution but operates with an international perspective. Offices in Nairobi and Brussels reinforce our global reach.
Over the years, we have amassed an outstanding reputation for quality and objectivity. Our heritage, location at the heart of Whitehall, and extensive networks inside and outside government, give RUSI a unique insight and authority.
You can find out more about our work and research here.