Orientation Roadmap Autonomous Technology
The latest technologies are revolutionising security and defence. Thanks to AI, advanced sensors, secure communication, and powerful edge hardware, systems are becoming increasingly intelligent and autonomous. Humans are shifting from operational tasks to tactical and strategic roles, while fleets of intelligent systems carry out missions autonomously, adapt to their environment, and can self-repair or self-upgrade.
A strong Flemish ecosystem as the foundation
Flanders has a strong ecosystem of high-tech companies, research centres, and industrial partners developing technologies for autonomous systems. Over 120 Flemish companies operate in fields including sensing, decision-making, energy, mechanics, and self-repair. Although many technologies originate from civil applications, they are highly suitable for defence and security.
Four technological pillars
The roadmap highlights four key technology domains:
- Sensing Technologies: Advanced sensors and digital tools collect data on the environment and systems.
- Thinking, Decision-making, Acting & Teaming: Intelligent algorithms analyse data and provide guidance on decisions and actions to be taken, with a focus on cooperation between systems.
- Movement Technologies: Energy and propulsion systems ensure mobility and robustness, even in extreme conditions.
- Resilient Autonomy Technologies: Self-protection, self-monitoring, and self-repair strengthen the resilience of autonomous fleets.
Two strategic pillars
- The acceleration of the innovation cycle at fleet level: Through digitalisation, distributed microfactories, and mobile production techniques, autonomous fleets can repair and upgrade themselves, maximising their deployability and lifespan.
- Resilient, autonomous missions with hybrid fleets: Intelligent drones and vehicles operate collaboratively, make autonomous decisions, and carry out missions in complex, hostile environments without constant human intervention.
Flanders as a European pioneer
With its strong knowledge base and innovative companies, Flanders is exceptionally well positioned to play a leading role in the European roadmap for autonomous technology in security and defence.
Roadmap in focus
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See the full roadmap
Would you like to discover the ways in which Flanders is utilising its technological advantage with autonomous systems for the security of tomorrow? Read the full orientation roadmap and be inspired by the future of autonomous technology!