Army officers who want to help shape the operational use of artificial intelligence in the military can now pursue a new professional career path. This week the Army announced a new area of concentration focused on the use of AI and machine learning.
A new specialty, “49B Artificial Intelligence/Machine Learning,” will create a “uniformed professional” tasked with integrating artificial intelligence systems into Army operations. This includes working to create a more efficient logistics network and “accelerate battlefield decision-making,” the Army said. This new area of concentration is part of the U.S. military's broader efforts to integrate and utilize artificial intelligence systems.
“This is an intentional and important step to keep pace with current and future operational requirements,” Army spokesman Lt. Col. Orlandon Howard said in a military announcement. “We are building a dedicated cadre of in-house experts who will be at the forefront of integrating AI and machine learning across the warfighting function.”
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The new concentration area began in early January. Officers eligible for the Volunteer Transfer Incentive Program will be eligible to apply for a change in career specialty. Although no specific requirements were laid out, the Army said officers with technical and academic experience in AI and machine learning “will be particularly strong candidates.” The Army has not said how many officers are expected to be included in the first group. Those selected to pursue the concentration will “undergo rigorous graduate-level training,” including building and deploying AI systems for the Army.
The new 49B officers are also expected to be responsible for and oversee the use of robots on the battlefield. The Army has worked hard over the last year to significantly expand its use and expertise with autonomous drones.
The Army also noted in a statement that there is a potential career path to become a warrant officer.
Last month, the Department of Defense released its own version of Gen AI, intended for use by Pentagon military and civilian personnel. It starts with the version of Google's Gemini AI system used by the federal government. “The future of American warfare is here, and it's AI,” Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth said in a video announcing the deployment. More AI tools will be integrated and expanded in the near future.
The first group of 49B soldiers will be reclassified by the end of the fiscal year in September, the Army said.
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