Artificial intelligence (AI) presents both significant challenges and unique opportunities for information fusion. Over the past decade, information fusion research in intelligent systems has undergone rapid and foundational transformation. The field is transitioning from modular, scenario-specific algorithms toward integrated fusion paradigms that combine data, algorithms, and computational resources to support cross-scenario and cross-system industrial applications.

Today's AI frontier evolves from words to worlds. Recent information fusion research activity has accelerated the transition from modular approaches toward ontology-based and system-level paradigms. AI-driven fusion frameworks have emerged as key enabling technologies for intelligent systems, providing unified platforms that support perception, decision-making, and system-level coordination. As a result, fusion-enabled intelligence applications have expanded beyond traditional aerospace domains to a broad range of industrial sectors, including factories, transportation, autonomous systems, robotics, seaports, and aero-tech systems.

In this special issue of the Chinese Journal of Information Fusion (CJIF), we seek submissions of works on information fusion for intelligent systems. The topics of the special issue are expected to reflect recent efforts but not limited on (in particular, we sincerely welcome leading industrial players):

Scope of the Special Issue

• Smart factories (NIO)

• Autonomous systems (Mercedes Benz, BMW, Audi)

• Smart seaport (ZPMC, Westwell)

• Smart aero-tech (JBT)

• Embodied robotics (Droid)

• Unmanned aerial vehicles

• Unmanned surface vessels

• Smart wearable devices

• Smart medi-care systems (RoboGo)