Pete Hegseth outlined a four-star command to coordinate autonomous and robotic systems across the US military. Project Agincourt will prepare the transition, connecting procurement with frontline operations. The Pentagon intends to work with Congress toward establishing the command by October 2027, making its legal authorities a central part of the plan.
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth announced plans for a four-star command to lead the expansion of autonomous and robotic systems across the military. He presented the initiative at the Marine Corps base in Quantico, Virginia, on 30 September. The proposed Autonomous Warfare Command would bring the design, development and fielding of those capabilities into a military command structure.[1], [2]
The interim effort is Project Agincourt, a reorganization of the Pentagon’s existing autonomy portfolio. Defense Innovation Unit director Owen West and Max Strasiser are to lead it. Hegseth wants purchasing decisions and resources moved closer to frontline units, with military personnel, engineers and entrepreneurs working together. He cited Ukraine’s experience to argue for an adaptable system rather than reliance on one kind of drone.[1]
A Pentagon memorandum sets October 2027 as the intended date to establish the command. Project leaders are expected to work with lawmakers on the necessary legislation. Giving combatant commands acquisition powers requires congressional approval. A Senate version of the fiscal 2027 defense authorization bill proposes a related robotic and autonomous systems command, but has not become law. The announcement therefore begins a transition involving both procurement and legal authorities.[1]
