US CENTCOM and UAE to launch bilateral military AI task force

Published Jul 28, 03:42 PM UTC

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE) will establish Task Force Talon Synapse, the first bilateral task force focused on advancing military artificial intelligence applications. 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 into intelligence support, protecting critical infrastructure, and monitoring regional security. The initiative follows discussions between CENTCOM Commander Adm. Brad Cooper and UAE National Security Advisor Sheikh Tahnoun bin Zayed al-Nahyan in 2025, and aligns with the UAE's broader strategy to accelerate defense AI capabilities, including a partnership with Anduril to co-produce autonomous drones. The task force is expected to launch in the coming weeks.