• • • DATA CENTRES • • •
MODULAR DATA CENTRES TO ENABLE INNOVATION ON THE DIGITAL BATTLEFIELD
The speed and sophistication of digital operations increasingly defines the modern battlefield. Autonomous systems processing real-time sensor data, AI-enhanced intelligence analysis at the tactical edge and machine learning-driven decision support all present defence organisations with an unprecedented computing challenge
By Anthony Soares, Defence Lead Consultant, EfficiencyIT
hat edge is delivering enterprise-grade processing power in environments where traditional infrastructure cannot reach. Despite ambitious strategies and substantial investments in artificial intelligence, the UK defence sector confronts a fundamental bottleneck. The primary obstacle is infrastructure. Without secure, deployable, high-density computing environments specifically engineered for AI workloads, even the most advanced military technologies remain constrained to fixed installations.
T
The AI Infrastructure Challenge Modern AI applications in defence present a paradox that conventional data centre design cannot resolve. Machine learning models for autonomous vehicle navigation, real-time threat
detection and battlefield awareness require computational density typically four to eight times that of traditional IT equipment. These applications demand near-instantaneous processing, with latency measured in milliseconds, to maintain operational effectiveness in dynamic combat environments. Consider a forward-deployed autonomous drone swarm. Each vehicle must process multiple sensor streams simultaneously, correlate data with other platforms, execute navigation in GPS-denied environments and identify targets, all in real time. Routing this processing through distant data centres introduces unacceptable latency. The computing resources must be at the tactical edge, yet traditional infrastructure requires stable power grids, controlled environments and security perimeters incompatible with forward operations.
Why are traditional
approaches falling short? Legacy defence IT infrastructure was designed for conventional computing workloads operating at predictable power densities within permanent facilities. Standard defence data centres typically provide 5-8kW per rack, but modern AI accelerators, including GPUs and purpose-built AI processors, can demand 30-50kW per rack. Retrofitting existing facilities for this density requires a comprehensive redesign of power distribution, cooling systems and backup power, a process measured in years and millions of pounds. Beyond power constraints, traditional data centre construction follows an 18 to 36 month cycle spanning initial planning through final commissioning. In rapidly evolving operational environments, this timeline renders infrastructure obsolete before it becomes operational. Technologies advance, mission requirements shift and threat landscapes transform faster than brick-and-mortar construction can respond. Fixed facilities, however sophisticated, cannot follow forces into the field, creating a persistent gap between where AI capabilities are needed and where computing infrastructure exists. Modular infrastructure engineered for the edge Military-grade modular systems represent sophisticated, factory-engineered infrastructure specifically designed for defence applications. Purpose-built power distribution systems deliver the high densities required by AI accelerators. Advanced uninterruptible power supplies specifically designed for GPU and AI processor loads provide clean, stable power despite grid fluctuations, while integrated battery storage and generator connectivity ensure continuous operation during extended outages. AI processors generate extraordinary heat loads that require precision thermal management. Modular systems employ hot aisle containment, liquid cooling loops and advanced airflow management to maintain optimal operating temperatures across the full spectrum of environmental conditions. These systems are tested across the full range of operational environments before deployment, ensuring reliability regardless of external conditions.
26 ELECTRICAL ENGINEERING • NOVEMBER 2025
electricalengineeringmagazine.co.uk
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