Field Marshal Birhanu Stresses Need for Adapting Technologies to Safeguard Sovereignty, Nat'l Interests

Addis Ababa, August 13 2026 (ENA) — The Chief of General Staff of Ethiopian National Defense Force (ENDF), Field Marshal Birhanu Jula, said adapting technologies is crucial for effectively safeguarding Ethiopia’s sovereignty and national interests. 

The Field Marshal made the remark during a signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the ENDF and the Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute.

The MoU aims at building a modern defense force equipped with artificial intelligence capabilities.

During the signing, the two sides discussed key areas where AI could strengthen military effectiveness, including in logistics, training, cybersecurity, military healthcare, air force, and electronic warfare.

On the occasion, Field Marshal Birhanu emphasized that integrating artificial intelligence into the military’s modernization efforts is vital to better achieve the objectives.

The agreement will support ongoing military development with AI technology, he added.

Pointing out that artificial intelligence is widely used in the health sector, the Field Marshal stated that the MoU will play a major role in effectively implementing AI in defense health institutions.

He also stressed the importance of technology-assisted training in developing a capable force and said the institutions would deepen cooperation in that area.

For his part, Ethiopian Artificial Intelligence Institute Director-General Worku Gachena said AI has huge potential for the defense force, particularly in enhancing air, ground, and cyber capabilities.

He affirmed the institute’s commitment to working collaboratively with ENDF in the effort to build a modern army.