Tampa- Gen. Bryan Fenton of U.S. Special Operations Command discussed the rise of technological advancements and the increasing coordination among China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea at the SOF Week convention. Special operations forces will play a unique role in countering threats, as demands for their support continue to grow while resources are not increasing.
Special operations forces are increasingly utilizing artificial intelligence to gain advantages over adversaries. Lisa Sanders highlighted some of the ways AI is being used to enhance warfighter performance, precision targeting, and space awareness. Lt. Col. Tosh Lancaster described new capabilities being looked at for procurement, including advanced sniper rifles and precision missiles.
Autonomy and AI will play a crucial role in improving the lethality of individual operators, with a focus on weaponized drones and ground robotics. The goal is to achieve organic overhead fires controlled by ground commanders without relying on air cover in contested environments. AI will also be used to help human operators manage and improve their own performance.
The focus of SOCOM remains on utilizing technology to provide an edge in warfare while ensuring human operators remain a top priority.
