The U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is currently exploring the capabilities of AI to process existing biometric data, a move that comes amidst ongoing ethical debates surrounding militarized AI systems. This initiative, which spans a nearly timeline, focuses on utilizing AI for analysis rather than direct targeting, according to DefenseScoop reporter Drew F. Lawrence. The command aims to gain knowledge about these technologies, identify intelligence gaps, and assess potential threats to its personnel.
SOCOM has initiated an exploration into how AI can analyze biometric data that has been gathered over years by law enforcement and government agencies. The effort, which is not a solicitation for specific products but rather a knowledge-gathering exercise, includes a timeline of close to . This period is expected to feature industry presentations, the delivery of “on-loan” devices to SOCOM, and vendor-led training for SOCOM testers on these devices.
The request from SOCOM appears to direct AI toward analyzing existing databases, rather than integrating the technology directly into recognition systems for targeting, as noted by Army combat veteran Plitsas, an expert cited by DefenseScoop. Plitsas stated, In that case, the tool itself isn’t being used to determine the target, so much as verify [if] an existing known target is present at the location.
This approach differs from some of the legal and ethical concerns raised about AI’s use in direct targeting. Biometric data, which includes unique physical and behavioral characteristics, has been a tool for identification across various government and law enforcement sectors for years.
SOCOM’s exploration is driven by a dual objective: to enhance its ability to verify known targets and to identify intelligence gaps within its current frameworks. Plitsas suggested that this request could also serve as a method for SOCOM to understand what technologies adversaries might employ to identify its operators. This could be being put out there to identify any potential threats to their own personnel, as much as it is to identify potential targets,
Plitsas added, questioning, Is there something in the commercial space that could cause us risk if our own operators are collected, voice or video?
This strategic foresight aims to leverage AI not only for offensive capabilities but also for defensive counter-intelligence. Concerns about the proliferation of militarized AI systems among global powers contribute to the urgency of understanding these nascent technologies. The Council on Foreign Relations has extensively discussed the implications of AI on national security, highlighting the ongoing race to develop and deploy such systems.
Specific details regarding the start and end dates of the nearly eight-month timeline for SOCOM’s AI exploration were not disclosed. The exact budget allocated for this initiative, the names of the specific industry vendors involved in presentations, and the precise criteria or benchmarks for evaluating the success of the knowledge-gathering phase remain unspecified. Furthermore, the long-term plan for integrating any learned capabilities into SOCOM’s operations is currently unknown.
Following the conclusion of the nearly exploration period, SOCOM will likely evaluate the insights gained from industry presentations and device testing. This evaluation could inform future strategies regarding the use of AI in biometric data processing, potentially leading to further research, development, or procurement initiatives. The findings may also contribute to SOCOM’s understanding of how to counter similar AI technologies employed by adversaries. The broader discussion around the ethical deployment of AI in military contexts is expected to continue as these technologies advance.
Follow us on Bluesky , LinkedIn , and X to Get Instant Updates
