Zuckerberg Targets UK Defence Deals with Major Investment in Scale AI
Mark Zuckerberg is targeting UK defence contracts with a $14 billion investment in Scale AI, a company that works with the US military. Scale AI is expanding in London and working to build ties with British defense agencies while facing scrutiny over its independence due to Meta’s stake. The UK government plans to ramp up AI-focused defence spending, reflecting a broader trend of Silicon Valley engaging in military initiatives.
In a significant move, Mark Zuckerberg is now eyeing defence contracts in the UK as Meta has invested $14 billion into Scale AI. This Silicon Valley start-up is courted by Britain’s national security agencies, bringing a wealth of advanced AI technology into the mix. Scale AI, which works with the Pentagon, is founded by the young billionaire Alexandr Wang, and now looks to expand its footprint in the UK, particularly by hiring personnel well-acquainted with the Ministry of Defence.
Just recently, Scale AI made news by partnering with the Pentagon on a project named “Thunderforge,” which aims to integrate AI bots into military planning and operations. This deal represents another layer of Meta’s increasing interest in defence technology. Zuckerberg has also signed on to develop advanced headsets for US military personnel and has released its AI creation known as Llama for national security applications.
It seems Silicon Valley, which used to shy away from military engagements, is now diving headfirst as AI becomes a critical battleground with global competitors like China and Russia. Wang has made public statements urging the US government to champion the AI sector, emphasizing the importance of outpacing adversaries like Beijing in what he dubbed the “AI war.” Other tech leaders are clearly following suit—OpenAI recently teamed up with Anduril to develop systems to combat drone threats. Meanwhile, Spotify’s Daniel Ek just invested significantly in Helsing, a German drone manufacturer.
Scale AI, founded in 2016, was recently valued at $29 billion after Meta took a hefty stake. The company’s UK office was launched last year, with ambitions aimed at securing various public sector contracts. Known for assisting data-driven businesses with AI training through data labelling, Scale AI is also a key player for other AI labs like OpenAI.
Last year, Scale AI expressed to UK MPs its commitment to bolstering the country’s defence capabilities, wanting to lead rather than merely keep pace with advances in AI technology. In a notable show of high-profile engagement, Wang had meetings with key figures including Sir Keir Starmer, Emmanuel Macron, and Narendra Modi, and was even present at Donald Trump’s inauguration.
Most recently, a Strategic Defence Review by the UK government has underscored the role of AI in its defence spending plans. Last year, Scale AI also snagged its first public contract in the UK, collaborating on a project examining the potential for AI bots to deceive.
However, Zuckerberg’s investment hasn’t come without concerns. Major clients like Google and OpenAI have reportedly paused collaborations with Scale AI in light of Meta’s hefty influence in the company. In response to these worries, the interim CEO Jason Droege reassured stakeholders that Scale AI will remain independent, ensuring that Meta won’t have access to competitive data.
In a statement from a company spokesperson, it was emphasized that Scale AI is dedicated to its independence and is diligently working with the UK government, showcasing how its AI solutions can enhance operations across a range of departments, including both civilian and military initiatives.
Zuckerberg’s recent investment in Scale AI signals a deeper involvement of Silicon Valley in military undertakings, particularly in the context of UK defence deals. As Scale AI seeks to integrate advanced AI technologies into military and civilian sectors, it faces scrutiny over potential conflicts of interest due to Meta’s influence. Nonetheless, the company asserts its commitment to independence while engaging actively with the UK government to meet national security needs.
Original Source: www.telegraph.co.uk
