The keynote address challenges the audience to consider whether we currently have national security and defence planning the wrong way around.

It is not about updating how we fight to incorporate new technological developments, but determining how we want to fight and driving technology development to enable it. It requires a plan, and a ‘theory of winning’. The truth is, today, we have neither.
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Keith explores how understanding operational challenges is crucial for developing technologies that are not only innovative but are operationally viable and effective.

He discusses the complexities and dynamic nature of modern warfare
environments and how data-driven insights can lead to more strategic
decision-making.

Panel participants delve into the strategic implications of the UK-Japan defence partnership, discussing how joint initiatives can strengthen bilateral defence capabilities and foster a secure Indo- Pacific region.

Moderator: Dr Keith Dear, Managing Director, Fujitsu’s Centre for Cognitive and Advanced Technologies
Speakers:
-  Al Brown, Director of Neurosymbolic Artificial Intelligence at Fujitsu’s Centre for Cognitive and Advanced Technologies
-  Sophia Gaston, Head of Foreign Policy and UK Resilience at Policy Exchange
-  Alessio Patalano, Professor of War & Strategy in East Asia at the Department of War Studies (DWS), King's College London

The session highlights the role of emerging technologies such as AI, digital twins, and advanced analytics in enhancing defence collaboration and operational efficiency between the UK and Japan.