Ukraine to share wartime combat data to train AI
Ukraine plans to let its allies train artificial intelligence models using Kyiv’s combat data from nearly four years of war with Russia. Defence Minister Mykhailo Fedorov said the data will be a key asset in cooperation with other nations.
Valuable battlefield data
Since Russia’s invasion in February 2022, Ukraine has collected extensive battlefield information. This includes systematically logged combat statistics and millions of hours of drone footage.
Such data is crucial for training AI models. AI requires large volumes of real-world information to identify patterns and predict actions in different situations. Fedorov told reporters: “Frontline data has extraordinary value. We will build a system on which allies can train their software products using our data.”
Integrating allies and technology
Fedorov, who previously led digitalisation in Ukraine, has emphasized using AI from partners like the U.S. analytics firm Palantir for military and civilian purposes. He plans to integrate allies more actively into Ukraine’s defence projects.
His team is receiving guidance from the U.S. think tanks RAND and the Center for Strategic and International Studies, as well as Britain’s Royal United Services Institute.
Domestic drone development
Ukraine will also test its homegrown replacement for China’s DJI Mavic drone this month. The drone is widely used for aerial reconnaissance by both sides. Fedorov did not name the manufacturer but said: “We will have our own Mavic analogue: the same camera, but with a longer flight range.”
The move aims to reduce reliance on Chinese drones and components amid Beijing’s deepening ties with Russia.
