TAMPA, FLORIDA — U.S. Special Operations Command outlined requirements for artificial intelligence tools that can operate on disconnected front lines, officials said at the Global SOF Foundation's SOF Week event in Tampa, Florida. The command is seeking frameworks that extend cloud computing closer to where data is collected and used, a concept sometimes called "fog computing," along with versions of large language models that require less computing power while still understanding human intent with less instruction.

Today's AI tools typically run in the cloud connected to massive data centers, but special operators need them to work in remote locations beyond the reach of networks. Officials at the event said that physical proximity to the tactical edge enables faster use of mission-critical data and faster decision-making.

"SOF units already use generative AI 'heavily' for things like resource allocation and force deployment, and are 'delving' into its use for tactical operations," said Rob McClintock, program manager for intelligence for the program executive office for digital applications. McClintock said the command is also looking into AI "agents" that can plan, revise and execute strategies.

The most desirable feature of any AI tool for SOCOM is making it easier for operators to do what they already do, such as coordinating different types of drones and planning and carrying out missions using spoken or gestured commands. "In that conversation about managing the cognitive load on operators, voice command is a logical step," said Col. Robert "Ramsey" Oliver, PEO of SOCOM's SOF Warrior.

Today's biggest consumer-facing technology and AI companies do not build products for niche tactical needs. Melissa Johnson, SOCOM's acquisition executive, said the command is open to working with vendors of various sizes to meet those needs.

"From an acquisition perspective, we're not just limited to the bigger companies with their own mindset, because AI is very dynamic," Johnson said. "Sometimes the smaller organizations, smaller businesses bring those solution sets."