Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced the creation of the Autonomous Warfare Command, or Autowarcom, on September 30, 2026. This new entity marks the 12th US combatant command and the first established since the US Space Command in 2019.
As a four-star functional command, Autowarcom possesses service-like authorities. This allows the organization to independently innovate, procure, and deploy autonomous technologies without relying on the Army, Navy, or Air Force for acquisitions.
While the Pentagon awaits the full launch, the interim structure Project Agincourt is currently accelerating the acquisition of military technology. This project is led by Defense Innovation Unit Director Owen West and Navy SEAL Senior Chief Max Strasiser.
The Pentagon has requested $54.6 billion for the 2027 fiscal year to support the Defense Autonomous Warfare Group and related initiatives. This funding request is currently pending review by lawmakers.
