The multifaceted role of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in defense and security was the focus of a two-day seminar titled "Strategic Security Foresight," held on February 4-5 by the Cyprus Security and Defense Academy in collaboration with Neapolis University. The event featured a presentation by Chief Scientist for Research, Innovation, and Technology, Demetris Skourides, who examined AI’s evolving impact on military operations, data analysis, and cybersecurity.

According to a statement from the Research and Innovation Foundation (RIF), the seminar attracted leading defense and security experts, with 27 representatives from six EU countries (Belgium, France, Germany, Spain, Cyprus, and Finland).

During his presentation, Chief Scientist Skourides outlined AI’s transformative role in defense, emphasizing its influence on military operations, security strategies, and threat detection. He stressed the need to understand the strategic depth of emerging technologies and the defense industry, stating that "the rules are being rewritten" as technology and innovation drive dynamic change in the sector.

A key theme in his speech was "seeing around corners"—the ability to anticipate and adapt to rapid technological advancements, which is crucial for developing resilient and effective defense strategies.

He also discussed defense systems incorporating AI, such as:

• Autonomous weapons

• Intelligent threat detection algorithms

• Cybersecurity frameworks

Additionally, he highlighted critical challenges associated with AI in defense, including deepfake manipulation, ethical concerns regarding autonomous decision-making in combat, and the risks of AI-driven cyberattacks using machine learning algorithms.

Skourides concluded by analyzing the importance of Strategic Foresight, a framework that links technological advancements with national and international security planning. He emphasized that proactive risk and crisis management is essential in a rapidly evolving defense landscape.

The seminar was held under the auspices of the European Security and Defense College.