Gordan Pešić - CEO, DOK-ING Security and Defence

Gordan Pešić discusses Europe's strategic crossroads in defense, emphasizing the need for strategic decisions to address capability gaps identified within the European safe framework. He highlights the importance of interoperable and standardized capabilities across European countries and allies. The current geopolitical situation, particularly the conflict in Ukraine, underscores the necessity for investment in emerging technologies like AI, robotics, and unmanned systems. Pešić's company, DOK-ING, aligns with these needs by focusing on technologies related to autonomy and AI. He stresses the role of AI in reducing cognitive and physical burdens on human operators, while maintaining human oversight in decision-making for ethical and legal reasons. The defense industry sees a surge in investments, with expectations of growth until 2030, driven by initiatives like RE-ARM and the EU's multi-annual financial framework. Pešić notes the push for increased defense spending, particularly in Eastern European countries, and the importance of diligent execution of the SAFE directive. He supports collaboration with allied countries for capability development and values the inclusive environment fostered by the FII conference.