Representative image of AI-powered drone for mine detection | Photo: UK Ministry of Defence
The UK’s Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (Dstl) has completed a trial of AI-enabled drone technology designed to detect landmines and explosive ordnance, in collaboration with the British Army. The trial was conducted with 33 Engineer Regiment at its base in Essex over several weeks.
During the trial, multiple replica mines and explosive devices were placed across varied terrain. Data collected by sensors mounted on small uncrewed aerial systems was transmitted to operators, who used artificial intelligence tools to locate and identify the threats. The system was tested in different environmental conditions to assess its effectiveness in realistic scenarios.
The trial also demonstrated that AI models can be retrained to recognise new types of threats and adapt to different operating environments. According to the Ministry of Defence, this capability is relevant in situations where the nature of explosive threats changes over time.
“This trial is exactly the kind of innovation the Strategic Defence Review calls for – harnessing AI, drones and autonomous systems to boost deterrence and make our Armed Forces stronger. We’re on a mission to exploit new technologies, removing our people from harm’s way while increasing the speed and effectiveness of their operations. This is defence innovation working at wartime pace, and it is delivering exciting results.” said Luke Pollard, Minister for Defence Readiness and Industry.
Dstl’s technical lead for the trial said, “The threat posed by explosive ordnance is constantly changing and so must the tools and techniques required to deal with it safely. Dstl brings a comprehensive understanding of the science and technology, as well as the specialist industry suppliers who provide the different elements. We are testing, adapting and demonstrating this technology so that, working closely with the end user, we can develop concepts that let our forces compete on the modern battlefield.”
Major Mark Fetters, British Army Future Counter-Explosive Ordnance Capability lead, said, “The modern battlefield is littered with explosive ordnance. The equipment being developed by Dstl will allow EOD operators to conduct their mission faster and will remove people from the explosive hazard. We are also looking to understand how the capability will grow as other technologies mature. As different types of sensors become lighter, more power-efficient, and smaller, they will be able to fit on to smaller uncrewed aerial systems – constantly improving the capability available to our EOD and Search personnel.”
The trial forms part of a broader effort to integrate AI, autonomy and advanced sensors into military operations. The UK government has committed to increasing investment in autonomous systems, with plans to double spending from £2 billion to £4 billion during the current parliamentary term.
Further trials are planned later in 2026 to refine the technology and support decisions on operational deployment.
Discover more from StratPost
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
