Turning Point: The dice are NOW cast

1. Decision support is not just decision support

   Most providers on the market focus only on the first step of the OODA loop: Observe. However, situational awareness is not synonymous with an efficient decision-making process.

2. The system does not just provide advice
   It is often said that decision-making systems only assist humans in their tasks. However, automation bias, deskilling, and confirmation bias are often overlooked. The preparation of decisions has a significant impact on the final decision. How neutral are the algorithms really?

3. Humans make more mistakes, yes - but –

   We currently observe, for example with DELTA, Lavender, etc., the pros and cons of these systems and learn from them: Do speed, scalability, and error correction of machines outweigh the seemingly higher error rate of human actors? AI-based decision-making is indispensable in modern warfare, but the right balance of "Meaningful Human Control" still needs to be found – there is not much time left for that.

The clock is ticking - in two years, according to expert forecasts, the market will have evolved. The European defense sector is undergoing massive transformation. This offers startups opportunities to enter the market with high innovation speed. Companies that have previously had no connection to the defense industry can enter the defense sector with dual-use solutions, as long as they build partnerships with established players.

In addition to innovation and partnership, leadership culture is THE success factor, as there are crucial differences between the civilian and military industries: In the automotive sector, efficiency and customer proximity are relevant; in the defense sector, security, resilience, and geopolitical responsibility count.

The lack of personnel with a defense background is already the biggest bottleneck in the European defense sector. One strategy for overcoming this is the targeted recruitment of lateral entrants from automotive, aerospace, and IT. Dual use also applies to personnel resources.

This requires a new leadership culture that is mission-driven rather than market-driven. MU, as a diagnostically strong HR and leadership consultancy, makes a significant contribution to the development of this new leadership style. As a strong partner of the defense industry, we systematically assess lateral entry competence through potential analyses and use scientific diagnostics to identify the right mix of agility, resilience, and compliance awareness. We offer leadership programs tailored to the defense sector and support our clients in establishing themselves as relevant players in the market.

About MU

MU is a leading global company in Executive Search and Leadership Advisory. For nearly 60 years, we have been dedicated to helping organisations exceed their goals and drive sustainable growth. MU specialises in identifying, assessing, and recruiting top talent for leadership positions. At the same time, MU offers tailored leadership advisory services for each client’s unique context and needs.

The company was founded and headquartered in Stockholm, Sweden, but is active in over 60 countries. Thanks to our global network, we combine local expertise with international reach.

MU works with a unique and proprietary method. By using our scientifically validated MU Leader Selection Science^®, we can ensure long-term leadership success and inclusive workplaces. Our independent MU Research Institute supports our methods with evidence-based research. 

MU is consistently recognised as one of the top global firms in Executive Search and advisory and is a proud member of the Association of Executive Search and Leadership Consultants. 

MU adheres to the highest standards of quality and ethical practices and is ISO 10667 certified, underscoring our commitment to fair, reliable, and objective leadership decisions.