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Polish cyber defense chief eyes AI to transform military decision-making

30.07.2024 23:00
The commander of Poland's cyber defense forces has announced plans to develop an artificial intelligence center aimed at supporting military decision-making.
Gen. Karol Molenda, commander of Polands Cyber Defense Forces.
Gen. Karol Molenda, commander of Poland's Cyber Defense Forces.Photo: PAP/Leszek Szymański

Speaking with Polish state news agency PAP, Gen. Karol Molenda emphasized the significant potential of AI in aiding decision-making processes, calling it a "potential game changer" in military operations.

The new AI center will focus on using artificial intelligence to rapidly analyze vast quantities of data, aiding commanders with comprehensive information on operational theatres.

Molenda clarified that while the final decision rests with human commanders, AI tools can enhance their ability to make informed choices by providing extensive data from the field.

Molenda highlighted the dual role of military solutions and armaments as both effectors and sensors.

This dual functionality allows for the collection and transmission of data, potentially offering commanders a strategic advantage.

He argued that other innovative countries are also exploring similar AI applications to strengthen their military decision-making capabilities.

Poland's Cyber Defense Forces, a specialized formation within the armed forces, is dedicated to ensuring security across cyber domains.

With over 6,500 soldiers and staff across 13 units nationwide, these forces engage in defensive, reconnaissance and offensive operations.

Directly reporting to the defense ministers, the Cyber Defense Forces are at the forefront of Poland’s national security strategy.

Molenda also addressed the proactive strategies employed by his forces to combat cyber threats, often engaging with adversaries to better understand and preempt their tactics.

"To put it plainly, we bait them," he said. "We've built a number of solutions that mimic our systems and networks. We let the adversary in, learn from them, pay attention to what they are looking for, what tools they use, and what cyber weapons they employ. This also offers a possibility for cyber reconnaissance, to understand the techniques, tactics and procedures our adversaries operate with."

He noted daily attempts to compromise the defense ministry's IT infrastructure, predominantly by groups associated with Russia and known as Advanced Persistent Threats (APT).

The general stressed that their approach diverges from standard practices, focusing on proactive engagement rather than reactive measures.

This strategic shift towards AI integration in military operations not only positions Poland at the cutting edge of defense technology but also illustrates a broader global trend where data becomes a pivotal element in security and tactical supremacy, the PAP news agency reported.

(rt/gs)

Source: PAP