Technologists at Bluerydge and UNSW Canberra have commenced a project to develop and deploy next-gen AI chatbots for Defence applications, supported by funding from Defence Trailblazer’s Accelerating Sovereign Industrial Capabilities (ASIC) program.
While state-of-the-art AI chatbot systems such as GPT4 have impressive language understanding and generation capabilities, they rely heavily on centralised data-processing and cloud-based services. This results in limited data sovereignty and offline functionality, making them suboptimal for Defence and healthcare applications – particularly remote field operations.
The Bluerydge project, Sierra Blue, aims to develop and deploy localised, decentralised Language Learning Model (LLM) systems tailored to end users in the Australian Defence Force (ADF) and associated sectors to ensure optimal operation without continuous internet connectivity. Bluerydge will implement the functional and fully trained AI chatbot systems utilising advanced hardware components.
“We are addressing critical need for data sovereignty, providing users with control over their data while leveraging advanced Al functionalities,” said project lead and PhD Candidate at Bluerydge, Adam Haskard.
The AI chatbot systems can be integrated into existing defence infrastructure to enhance operational capabilities. For instance, submarines, EW aircraft, and deployed troops can utilise these systems for realtime intelligence, threat detection, and decision support. This will streamline operations and improve the efficiency and effectiveness of military missions.
Pictured left to right: Ilsa Stuart (Defence Trailblazer Senior Partnerships Manager), Dr Tim Lynar (UNSW), Jim Boekel (Bluerydge Director and CEO), Adam Haskard and Thomas Kazan (Bluerydge Directors). Photo: Michelle Kroll (Region Media)
“The decentralised nature of the LLM systems ensures enhanced security, resilience, and control over data, aligning with data sovereignty principles,” said the project’s chief investigator, Dr Tim Lynar from UNSW. “This approach is particularly crucial for sensitive applications, ensuring that data remains within Australian jurisdiction and adheres to national security standards.”
The Sierra Blue project also creates opportunities for broader applications such as healthcare. For mobile healthcare units, the chatbot systems can manage patient data, provide diagnostic support, and facilitate telemedicine consultations – these functions will enhance quality of care and ensure timely medical interventions.
“The long-term objectives are to promote technological sovereignty, foster innovation in Australia and reduce reliance on foreign systems,” said Mr Haskard.
The outcomes of this project are directly aligned with Defence’s Sovereign Defence Industrial Priorities (SDIPs), including the development of autonomous systems, battlespace awareness systems and systems assurance.
For more information, visit the Bluerydge website.
