French defense firm unveils new AI-powered military system

A major French defense company has introduced an artificial intelligence-driven system designed to support military operations.

Thales announced the launch of HexaForce on Thursday. The firm said the system can gather information from a wide range of sources, such as front line units, vessels and satellites, select targets and plan operations using generative AI.

The company says the system can be operated flexibly in line with each country's defense strategy and policies.

Thales CEO Patrice Caine emphasized the importance of sovereignty and data control, stressing the need for European countries to avoid relying on US firms that lead global AI development.

Caine addressed growing debate in the United States over whether AI development should be regulated.

He expressed confidence that there are ways to keep AI under control, but emphasized the need for a global framework to manage the technology.