US CENTCOM and UAE launch first bilateral AI task force

Published Jul 28, 03:42 PM UTC

U.S. Central Command (CENTCOM) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) are establishing Task Force Talon Synapse, the first bilateral military artificial intelligence task force. The unit, based in Abu Dhabi, will consist of approximately 20 American and Emirati personnel with expertise in AI, data, and cybersecurity. Its mission includes integrating AI applications into intelligence support, protecting critical infrastructure, and monitoring the regional security environment. The task force's creation was discussed last year by CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper and UAE National Security Advisor Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Nahyan. The UAE has been actively pursuing AI defense capabilities for nearly a decade, including collaborations with Anduril to co-produce autonomous drones. The initiative reflects deepening US-UAE cooperation on emerging military technologies.