New research network to explore AI and warfare

How will artificial intelligence and autonomous systems affect the warfare of the future, and what consequences will this development have for society, politics and security? These are the questions that the new AI-WAR research network at the Swedish Defence University will examine, with support from the Wallenberg AI, Autonomous Systems and Software Program – Humanity and Society (WASP-HS).

Artificial intelligence is increasingly being used in military contexts, from decision support systems to autonomous technologies.

"At the same time, the societal, ethical, political and strategic implications of these developments call for interdisciplinary inquiry across the social sciences and humanities”, says Antoine Bousquet, Associate Professor at the Department of Political Science at the Swedish Defence University, who is leading the AI-WAR network together with Matthew Ford, Associate Professor at the Department of War Studies.

Build research capacity and promote collaboration

The WASP-HS AI-WAR research network aims to provide the necessary agenda-setting and capacity-building to support emerging Swedish research on artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomous systems (AS) in war and forge links to Nordic, European, and global counterparts.

“Through regular events, targeted grant support, and active dissemination, the network seeks to establish a leading Swedish research community for social science and humanities perspectives on AI/AS in war”, says Antoine Bousquet.

Platform for the exchange of ideas

The initiative responds to a growing need for research in an area that has become increasingly important but remains fragmented across disciplines. Through annual workshops and seminars, the network will provide a platform for exchanging ideas, sharing research results and developing new collaborations.

"The Swedish Defence University has a unique responsibility to advance knowledge about the changing character of war and security. This network creates an important platform for bringing together researchers and generating new insights into the opportunities and challenges posed by AI", says Robert Egnell, Vice-Chancellor at the Swedish Defence University.

The network is funded with SEK 1 500 000 over a three-year period, starting in July 2026. Activities, including a hybrid seminar series, will begin in the autumn. Researchers interested in the network can contact Antoine Bousquet for more information.

The AI-WAR network at the Swedish Defence University