Intelligent Autonomy In Defence At IDC 2026 Abu Dhabi

The International Defence Conference (IDC) 2026 has opened at ADNEC Centre Abu Dhabi, bringing together senior military leaders, defence officials, and technology experts to examine how intelligent autonomy is reshaping global security. Held under the theme "Smart Horizons: Redefining Defence Through Intelligent Autonomy", the conference focuses on artificial intelligence in defence and related sectors, and draws more than 700 high-profile participants from around the world.

The event takes place under the patronage of H.H. Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Deputy Chairman of the Presidential Court for Special Affairs, and Chairman of the Smart and Autonomous Systems Council. Lieutenant General Ibrahim Nasser Al Alawi, Under-Secretary of the Ministry of Defence, attends the opening in Abu Dhabi, reflecting strong institutional support for the conference agenda.

Organised by ADNEC Group, a Modon company, in cooperation with the Ministry of Defence and Tawazun Council for Defence Enablement, IDC 2026 gathers international defence and security specialists, industry leaders, and innovators. The programme explores how emerging technologies are changing societies, altering defence ecosystems, and influencing the wider security environment, with a particular focus on intelligent autonomous systems and their civilian and military uses.

The inaugural address is delivered by Major General Mubarak Saeed Aljaberi, Assistant Minister of State for Digital Transformation, Technology and Artificial Intelligence. Aljaberi explains that intelligent autonomous systems are already influencing defence, transportation, energy, healthcare, and smart cities. Aljaberi notes that the UAE’s National Strategy for Artificial Intelligence is fully underway, and that AI and autonomy are seen as essential capabilities in the 21st century.

Aljaberi stresses that intelligent autonomy requires careful integration across three key areas. "Firstly, technological and data innovation is already taking shape with the development of counter-drone solutions on locally manufactured vehicles equipped with autonomous aircraft, which protect our operators in the field. The navy is also operating unmanned surveillance assets to enhance coastal security." These examples highlight how new systems are entering active service.

He then outlines the second dimension, partnership innovation, linking defence development to wider cooperation. "The second dimension is partnership innovation. Breakthroughs are built with global industrial partners, academia, and start-ups. Our defence capabilities will be strengthened through innovation networks, not isolated programmes. We must build local and global partnerships to accelerate manufacturing, development, and advanced, cutting-edge AI-enabled military operations."

Aljaberi identifies process innovation as the third pillar, noting the rapid pace of change in autonomous systems. "The third dimension is process innovation, which is critical, as autonomous systems are evolving in months, not decades. Process innovation means rapid acquisition, ensuring that new technology is seamlessly integrated with existing command and control systems," he said. This approach aims to align procurement and integration with fast-moving technologies.

Concluding the speech, Aljaberi underscores the central role of personnel in AI-enabled operations. "The men and women of our armed forces bring context, moral clarity, and accountability to our AI military operations. This year marks the 50th anniversary of the unification of the armed forces—a moment to look forward with purpose. Over five decades, our strength has always been our people: their courage, commitment, and unity. As we embark on the next 50 years of the armed forces’ journey, our use of AI in defence will continue to reflect our values and our humanity as a nation."

Across the day, three main panels examine opportunities and risks linked to intelligent autonomy on the modern battlefield. Discussions cover "Command Networks of the Future – The New Nerve System of Defence", "The Autonomous Force – Integrating AI into Joint and Tactical Operations" and "Global Autonomy Standards – Building Trust, Safety and Readiness", highlighting operational integration, interoperability, and regulatory frameworks.

IDC 2026 also serves as a networking platform, where attendees meet senior commanders, defence firms, and technology providers, and gain practical insights from the panel sessions. The conference takes place one day before the seventh Unmanned Systems Exhibition (UMEX) and the Simulation and Training Exhibition (SimTEX), reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s role as a hub for discussions on future defence technologies and intelligent autonomy.

With inputs from WAM