AI News Monitor

While artificial intelligence is often associated with futuristic warfare and autonomous systems, the U.S. Special Operations Command (SOCOM) is finding some of its most immediate benefits in an unlikely arena: budgeting and administration.

Marine Corps Lt. Gen. Frank L. Donovan, SOCOM’s vice commander, highlighted the command’s use of AI-driven tools to streamline financial planning and operational efficiency during a speech Wednesday at the AI+ Expo in Washington. Though he acknowledged that “talking about budgets doesn’t sound exciting,” Donovan emphasized that the technology is ensuring a stronger return on taxpayer investment while allowing SOCOM to modernize its global operations.

“We use this tool, integrating data from across multiple databases into a single pool, and then use generative AI to deliver insights and provide true courses of action,” Donovan explained. The system helps maintain budget stability while cutting excess spending—a critical advantage as the Pentagon faces increasing fiscal scrutiny.

Beyond dollars and cents, Donovan stressed that human expertise remains indispensable. AI accelerates decision-making by processing vast amounts of data, but staff officers still play a vital role in interpreting results and applying strategic judgment.

“We want them still in the loop to provide their expertise,” he said. “But with AI, we can move quicker—with more volume and data—to make a better decision.”

SOCOM has emerged as an early adopter of AI within the Defense Department, particularly in software development. Last month, an industry expert rated the command’s AI progress a “six or seven” out of 10, suggesting room for growth—especially in integrating AI with older hardware systems.

The AI+ Expo, now in its second year, serves as a hub for government, industry, and academic leaders to showcase breakthroughs in AI and related fields. For SOCOM, the focus on administrative efficiency reflects a broader shift: AI isn’t just transforming the battlefield—it’s reshaping the back office, too.