The US military is testing a new approach to artificial intelligence adoption by embedding AI engineers and trainers directly into operational missions rather than relying primarily on traditional classroom instruction.
As part of the effort, Agile Defense has received a $100-million prototype agreement to deploy its AI teams within the North American Aerospace Defense Command and US Northern Command, where they will help personnel develop, refine, and apply AI-enabled tools during live mission workflows.
The Virginia-based firm will prototype its Force Deployed Engineering and Training (FDE&T) model, which combines AI workforce training with hands-on engineering support.
The embedded teams will provide technical assistance while adapting training programs as AI capabilities, operational requirements, and mission needs evolve.
The effort will focus on the Pentagon’s Maven Smart System and War Data Platform, helping personnel build AI-enabled workflows while developing the skills needed to use and adapt emerging technologies.
“Our FDE&T teams will bring data engineering and AI software development training directly to the warfighter,” said Mike Pansky, chief transformation officer at Agile Defense.
Unlike traditional training models, FDE&T integrates technical expertise with daily operations, allowing military personnel to learn AI capabilities while applying them directly to mission requirements.
