Marines confronted with catch-22 over new AI with human control strategy

Published August 26, 2026 6:15pm ET



The Marine Corps released its new strategy on Wednesday for the future of its ground units and infantry troops that will heavily incorporate artificial intelligence, but emphasizes that humans will remain in the chain of decision-making. It’s unclear if adversaries will do the same or if it will disadvantage the United States.

The first of five pillars that make up the new Marines’ Ground Combat Element 2040 is called “human-centered warfighting,” and it notes that, “While enabled by advanced technology, this force is fundamentally human-centric, grounded in the willpower, discipline, and adaptability of the individual marine. Technology enhances human judgment but never replaces it.”

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