BAE Systems has announced a strategic investment in Oxford Dynamics, a UK-based artificial intelligence and robotics start-up. This collaboration aims to enhance defence capabilities by integrating Oxford Dynamics' AI technology into BAE Systems' platforms, including the Prophesea system, to support operational readiness and rapid decision-making for UK and allied forces.
BAE Systems Boosts AI Prowess with Oxford Dynamics Investment
BAE Systems has strategically invested in Oxford Dynamics, a burgeoning UK deep-tech start-up specialising in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. This move, announced on 7 August 2025, underscores BAE Systems' commitment to identifying and rapidly deploying innovative technologies to bolster defence and security capabilities.
Key Takeaways
BAE Systems invests in Oxford Dynamics, a UK AI and robotics start-up.
The collaboration aims to integrate Oxford Dynamics' AI technology into BAE Systems' platforms.
The first integration will be with BAE Systems' Prophesea platform.
The partnership seeks to enhance decision-making, operational autonomy, and resilience for defence forces.
The investment supports the UK government's goals for sovereign defence capabilities and innovation.
Enhancing Defence Capabilities Across Domains
The partnership will see BAE Systems combine its extensive defence and security expertise with Oxford Dynamics’ AI-driven data capabilities. The goal is to deliver next-generation advantages across all domains of modern warfare: air, land, sea, space, and cyber. This integration is expected to provide sovereign, AI-enabled real-time capabilities, empowering UK and allied forces with enhanced decision-making support and operational autonomy, particularly in contested environments.
Prophesea Platform Integration and Future Applications
The initial phase of this collaboration involves embedding Oxford Dynamics’ AI technology into BAE Systems’ Prophesea platform. Prophesea is a digital solution designed to ensure the operational readiness of critical assets such as warships, armoured vehicles, and combat aircraft. Looking ahead, the collaboration is set to enable the integration of Oxford Dynamics’ advanced capabilities across BAE Systems’ broader portfolio.
Strategic Alignment and Future Growth
Andrea Thompson, Group Managing Director of BAE Systems’ Digital Intelligence business, highlighted the importance of embracing emerging technology in the rapidly evolving landscape of warfare. She stated, “By working with companies such as Oxford Dynamics, we can help ensure that the nation is ready to unlock the advantages that innovation brings and help strengthen the UK’s sovereign defence and security landscape.”
Dr. Edward Jackson, co-founder of Oxford Dynamics, added that the collaboration aligns with the UK government’s Strategic Defence Review, focusing on accelerating innovation, delivering sovereign capability, and building a more integrated and lethal force. The equity stake taken by BAE Systems will support Oxford Dynamics’ growth, contributing to the UK’s defence industry and job creation.
Founded in 2020, Oxford Dynamics specialises in developing intelligent machines powered by AI to perform complex tasks, having already provided defence technology to UK government departments and agencies.
