Why is this important
Defense and security are increasingly dependent on technology: drones, artificial intelligence, robotics, and cyber defense are becoming key elements of modern conflicts. The special emphasis on protecting personal data and digital systems directly affects the civil sphere, because national digital infrastructure is what people and businesses use daily.
What happened
- The leader of Uzbekistan stated the need to introduce modern technologies in the defense sphere and emphasized that the army must be mobile and high-tech.
- He called for special attention to equipping the troops with unmanned systems with artificial intelligence, robotic complexes, and light equipment, and also called the introduction of digital technologies and artificial intelligence in the defense industry a priority.
- Among the tasks, cybersecurity and strengthening the resilience of national digital infrastructure were highlighted, and responsible persons were tasked with defining measures to protect personal data and digital systems.
Numbers and facts
- From 2026, competitions in esports, pilotless aircraft control, and robotics will be held.
- The list of traditional disciplines alongside which new competitions are being introduced includes wrestling, hand-to-hand combat, weightlifting, and other sports.
- Among the priorities, autonomous systems with artificial intelligence, robotic complexes, and light equipment for equipping troops were separately highlighted.
- The cybersecurity and sustainability of national digital infrastructure, as well as the need to define measures to protect personal data and digital systems, are identified as important tasks.
Context
- For the army and security forces: the focus shifts to practically mastering drones, robotic solutions, and digital tools, as well as strengthening cyber defense.
- For the defense industry: the implementation of digital technologies and AI is becoming a priority, which can change the requirements for developments, production, and competencies.
- For government agencies responsible for digital security: The instruction to define measures to protect personal data and digital systems means increased attention to regulatory and organizational decisions in this area.
- For education/training and sports: the emergence of competitions in esports, UAV control, and robotics reinforces these areas as applied skills that will be developed systematically.
