Washington, March 5: The United States is employing autonomous systems and artificial intelligence-based technologies in its military campaign against Iran. This information was disclosed by Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth during a briefing on Operation Epic Fury.
Hegseth confirmed that advanced technologies are playing a crucial role in this conflict, although he refrained from sharing detailed information. He stated, “We have numerous autonomous systems, drones, and other platforms equipped with smart AI technology. Many of these I cannot discuss here.”
The use of autonomous systems highlights the growing role of AI in modern warfare, particularly in drone operations, surveillance, and target acquisition.
According to U.S. officials, the current campaign includes long-range strikes, naval operations, and precise air attacks aimed at dismantling Iran’s military infrastructure.
Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force General Dan Ken, noted that in the first phase of the operation, the U.S. has targeted thousands of objectives. He mentioned, “So far, we have attacked over 2,000 targets.”
The military operation has three main objectives: to destroy Iran’s ballistic missile systems, neutralize the Iranian navy, and ensure that Iran cannot rapidly rebuild its military capabilities.
Ken elaborated, “First, we are targeting Iran’s ballistic missile systems. Second, we are dismantling the Iranian navy. Third, we are ensuring that Iran cannot quickly restore its war capabilities.”
The Pentagon has reported that as the campaign progresses, U.S. forces are adjusting their strategies—shifting from long-range attacks to direct precision strikes over Iran.
Ken stated, “CENTCOM is transitioning from long-range strike packages to direct precision strikes over Iran.”
The U.S. asserts that these operations aim to maintain continuous pressure on Iranian forces and disrupt their missile and drone launch capabilities.
U.S. officials have observed a significant decrease in the intensity of Iranian attacks since the conflict began. Ken remarked, “Iranian theater ballistic missile launches are down by 86 percent compared to the first day.”
Despite this, U.S. military officials have warned that the conflict remains dangerous and unpredictable. Ken cautioned, “These operations are complex, perilous, and are not yet over.”
Operation Epic Fury commenced this week amid escalating tensions between Iran and the U.S. regarding missile attacks and nuclear programs, leading to one of the most serious military confrontations in the Middle East in recent years.
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