Independent Robotics, a Montreal-based AI and robotics startup, has been named a winner in the NATO Innovation Hackathon.
Independent Robotics was recognised for developing AISRA, an AI-based data processing technology, at the event hosted by NATO and the Defence Innovation Accelerator for the North Atlantic (DIANA). The competition, which took place virtually, aimed to promote innovative defence technologies and featured participation from over 60 companies globally. Among the challenges tackled at the hackathon were those faced in ongoing conflict zones such as Ukraine.
With its accomplishment, the company received a prize of EUR €20,000 and an opportunity for further collaboration with NATO's DIANA network. The AISRA system demonstrated advanced capabilities in understanding and analysing video, sonar, and thermal imaging data to pinpoint objects of interest quickly. For example, AISRA can efficiently locate the vehicle in footage captured by reconnaissance aircraft using a single image of a new armoured vehicle.
The AISRA system is grounded in the company's "Insight Engine," a technology initially devised for civilian inspection in varied environments like land, air, and underwater. The Insight Engine manages extensive data analysis tasks, such as detecting and prioritising road potholes from city overflights, a task traditionally requiring extended periods of manual effort.
Independent Robotics CEO Julian Ware highlighted the importance of practical AI applications. "The world today is data-driven, but the burden on human analysts is unsustainable. Our goal isn't to develop AI for its own sake – it's to translate cutting-edge research into solutions that people actually need."
Nick Dudek, Head of Software at Independent Robotics, described how their solution empowers users in data-intensive situations: "It is built to help users regain control and understanding in situations flooded with data. Engaging with NATO defence experts reinforced the need for tools like AISRA."
The startup had previously collaborated with the Royal Canadian Navy's dive team through a federal innovation accelerator initiative, testing AI-powered uncrewed underwater vehicles. Their AI technology also finds applications across civilian sectors, including monitoring ship hulls, ports, bridge foundations, and fish farms for maintenance and monitoring purposes.
In addition, the company has partnered with Canadian firm Lone Drone Solutions to apply its technology to inspect civilian airports. Dudek mentioned the rising demand for their solution: "With the Insight Engine's ability to generate fast, high-confidence reports, demand for our solution is growing fast."
Ware underscored that their victory is a testament to the significance of ethical and impactful AI. "The world is moving fast, and the challenges we're addressing need solutions just as quickly," he said. "As Canada strengthens its position as a global AI leader, our company's success highlights the country's expanding influence in defence innovation."
