Italian defense company Leonardo plans to unveil the Michaelangelo Dome, an AI-powered air-defense system modeled on Israel’s Iron Dome, to strengthen Europe’s protection against Russian incursions. The system is designed to integrate multiple existing European anti-air weapons platforms, a coordination challenge Leonardo’s CEO described as the defense industry’s “largest integration programme ever.”
The initiative comes amid heightened concerns over Russian drone activity in European airspace. Europe is accelerating rearmament to address these threats, though experts warn the continent may remain underprepared for broader geopolitical challenges. A recent comment from a French general regarding a possible return to voluntary conscription sparked debate, highlighting Europe’s need to strengthen defense capabilities independently of U.S. support.
The Michaelangelo Dome exemplifies the growing role of AI in military defense, mirroring global trends in autonomous and semi-autonomous weapon systems. The system’s launch will be closely watched by European governments and defense analysts assessing AI’s potential to enhance situational awareness, coordination, and response times against aerial threats.
The Michaelangelo Dome exemplifies the growing role of AI in military defense, mirroring global trends in autonomous and semi-autonomous weapon systems. Its launch will be closely watched by European governments and defense analysts assessing AI’s potential to enhance situational awareness, coordination, and response times against aerial threats. The project aligns with broader applications of physical AI, including initiatives like Nokia and NestAI’s TESI, which aim to integrate AI into real-world operational systems.
