US, UAE to launch first bilateral military AI task force

The United States Central Command (CENTCOM) and the United Arab Emirates have agreed to establish their first bilateral task force dedicated to accelerating the development of military artificial intelligence applications, the command announced on X.

The initiative, named Task Force Talon Synapse, is expected to be formally launched in the coming weeks. Based in Abu Dhabi, the task force will comprise around 20 American and Emirati personnel with expertise in artificial intelligence, data and cybersecurity.

The joint team will focus on integrating AI applications for intelligence support, protecting critical infrastructure and monitoring the regional security environment.

“This will be a historic milestone as we work with one of our most capable regional partners to rapidly deliver evolving AI advancements to our warfighters,” said Adm. Brad Cooper, CENTCOM commander.

“Together, we and our Emirati partners share a strong commitment to adopting AI applications that will foster innovation at speed and scale.”

The agreement follows discussions last year between Adm. Cooper and UAE National Security Advisor Sheikh Tahnoon bin Zayed Al Nahyan on the potential creation of the task force. CENTCOM said it also met AI industry leaders and Emirati defence officials during a visit to the region last month as planning for the initiative progressed.

CENTCOM described the task force as the first bilateral military AI initiative of its kind with a regional partner, aimed at accelerating the adoption of emerging technologies across shared security priorities.

By Aghakazim Guliyev