Koen, Hildegarde S2026-09-302026-09-302026-08http://hdl.handle.net/10204/14962This presentation examines the strategic adoption of Artificial Intelligence (AI) within the Advanced Production and Security (APS) division of the CSIR, with a particular focus on balancing innovation, competitiveness, and the protection of sensitive information. It highlights the growing integration of AI tools into research, engineering, and operational environments, while emphasizing the significant risks associated with cloud-based AI systems, including data leakage, intellectual property loss, regulatory concerns, and the exposure of defence and sovereign information. A three-tier AI adoption model is proposed, comprising Public AI, Enterprise AI, and Sovereign/Secure AI environments, to ensure that AI usage is aligned with information sensitivity and security requirements. The presentation advocates for a “move the AI to the data” approach, whereby sensitive information remains within trusted environments. It further identifies strategic opportunities for the CSIR to become a national leader in Trusted Sovereign AI through the development of air-gapped large language models, secure knowledge management systems, and AI assurance capabilities. The document also outlines short- and medium-term AI value propositions across defence, mining, manufacturing, robotics, and cybersecurity sectors, and presents research themes and practical use cases demonstrating the transformative potential of AI in secure and mission-critical applications. Overall, the presentation underscores the importance of responsible, secure, and human-centred AI adoption to advance research, innovation, and national strategic objectives.FulltextenTrusted Sovereign AIArtificial intelligence adoptionData security and privacyDefence and national securityAdvanced production systemsConference Presentationn/a