Peter Spayne
Artificial Intelligence
Strategy & consultancy
Peter Spayne is a Chartered Engineer with academic qualifications at PhD, MSc and BEng level spanning Artificial Intelligence, AUV design, Oceanography and Systems Engineering.
He specialises in autonomous systems, uncrewed underwater vehicles, artificial intelligence, and lethal autonomous weapon systems, and is actively involved in the Engineers’ livery and STEM engagement.
His expertise was developed hands-on over a two-decade career in the Royal Navy, where he worked at the intersection of advanced technology, operations and safety in complex environments as a Chief Engineer, alongside a long distance academic career.
Peter’s consultancy focuses on the integration of artificial intelligence into complex systems, including uncrewed platforms, defence systems and AI-enabled decision support tools. His work spans system design, assurance, governance and operational integration, with particular emphasis on safety, trust, and the credible deployment of autonomy in real-world contexts.
Peter is an active academic researcher and published author, with a body of influential work on AI safety, assurance and autonomous systems. He is the author of Safe to Operate Itself Safely, an assurance framework designed to inform the safe deployment of autonomous weapon systems, and is currently involved in several international research projects.
Beyond research, Peter contributes across policy, industry and academia. He regularly guest lectures at universities and professional institutions, engages with think tanks and advisory bodies, and provides independent consultancy to government, defence organisations and industry. He has contributed as an expert witness on artificial intelligence in weapons systems to House of Lords select committees and participates in international, ministerial-level discussions on the governance, assurance and responsible use of military AI.
Please click the links below to contact Peter should you wish to enquire about any of his services including Speaking, Writing and Consultancy.
