Advancing Military Leadership in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

West Point equips future Army officers to lead in an era defined by AI, data, and emerging technologies through integrated coursework, faculty development, and institutional initiatives.

Advancing Military Leadership in the Age of Artificial Intelligence

West Point equips future Army officers to lead in an era defined by AI, data, and emerging technologies through integrated coursework, faculty development, and institutional initiatives.

Strengthening the Academy’s Approach to AI-Driven Leadership

West Point’s Artificial Intelligence Leadership Initiative prepares future Army officers to think, decide, and fight effectively in an AI-enabled world. Through integrated coursework, institutional modernization, and the Academy’s AI Task Force, cadets gain the technical expertise, ethical grounding, and operational mindset needed to lead in complex, data-driven military environments.

Through a comprehensive approach that integrates AI across the academic curriculum, strengthens faculty and staff expertise, and coordinates institutional efforts through the AI Task Force, West Point ensures that every graduate is equipped to leverage technology responsibly and effectively in support of the Army and the Nation.

Learn more about the AI curriculum Explore AI resources Learn more about the AI Task Force

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AI in the Curriculum

West Point’s AI curriculum provides cadets with a structured, progressive pathway from foundational concepts to applied expertise. All cadets develop core skills in computing, problem solving, and critical thinking while exploring the ethical, legal, and professional dimensions of AI. 

More advanced coursework and elective options build practical experience in data engineering, AI model development, and human-machine collaboration, preparing graduates to apply AI thoughtfully and effectively in complex, real-world environments.

AI Foundations for All Cadets

Beginning with the Class of 2029, all Plebes will complete AI105, an introductory course in computing, cyberspace, and artificial intelligence. 

The course builds essential skills for applying AI in operational contexts while developing the critical thinking and problem-solving abilities expected of future Army leaders.

Key highlights:

  • Core skills: Program design, software construction, and problem solving using AI and computational tools.
  • Operational relevance: Understanding the cyber domain and AI applications in military decision-making and warfighting.
  • Leadership development: Fosters critical thinking, creativity, and adaptive learning essential for officer responsibilities.
  • Ethical and professional context: Addresses legal, ethical, and security considerations in AI and cyberspace operations.

AI and Data Engineering Core Sequences

Non-engineering majors advance their expertise through a structured sequence that integrates programming, data engineering, and AI applications. 

This curriculum equips cadets with the technical and analytical skills necessary to leverage data and AI for operational advantage and informed decision-making.

Key highlights:

  • Technical proficiency: Develops programming and data engineering capabilities for analyzing, transforming, and applying complex datasets.
  • AI application: Teaches implementation of AI models to support rapid prediction, decision-making, and operational planning.
  • Leadership impact: Prepares cadets to lead teams that employ AI-driven tools and data insights in military and organizational contexts.
  • Strategic relevance: Emphasizes practical applications of AI and data engineering for operational and institutional advantage.

The first course in the AI and Data Engineering Core Sequence, CS300 Programming Fundamentals, provides cadets with a broad introduction to computer programming, allowing them to design, build, and test small to medium programs that use various data sets. 

The second course in the AIDE CES, CS350 Data Engineering, teaches cadets the skills to retrieve, validate, transform, visualize, and extract insights from data in various formats.

The final course in the AIDE CES, CS450 Engineering AI builds on the skills developed in the first two courses and empowers cadets to implement AI models that enhance decision-making and perform rapid prediction.

Learn more about the core curriculum

Artificial Intelligence Minor

The AI Minor allows cadets to deepen their technical and applied knowledge beyond the core curriculum, focusing on advanced AI concepts, machine learning, and human-machine collaboration.

Graduates of the minor are prepared to integrate AI thoughtfully and ethically into complex operational and organizational environments.

Key highlights:

  • Advanced technical skills: Covers machine learning, neural networks, and data pipelines for applied AI solutions.
  • Ethical decision-making: Emphasizes responsible AI deployment, algorithmic fairness, and human-machine teaming.
  • Operational leadership: Prepares cadets to apply AI insights in strategic planning, operational scenarios, and mission execution.
  • Innovation and adaptability: Fosters the ability to lead and innovate in rapidly evolving, AI-enabled environments.
Explore all majors and minors

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AI Resources for Cadets, Faculty, and Staff

West Point has numerous tools that empower cadets and instructors to use AI responsibly and effectively.

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AI Task Force

For the past two years, West Point’s AI Task Force, led by the Vice Dean for Academic Affairs and the Vice Dean for Engagement and Research, has brought together representatives from every academic department and across the Academy to guide AI initiatives. 

The Task Force ensures a coordinated approach to integrating AI in education, research, and institutional operations.

Key priorities:

  • Platform evaluation: Pilot AI tools and platforms for institutional use.
  • Institutional insight: Collect and share information on AI activities across West Point.
  • Documentation and compliance: Review requirements for AI-related records and policies.
  • Benchmarking: Compare practices with peer academic institutions and Army standards.
  • Cadet competencies: Define the knowledge, skills, and attitudes cadets should possess at graduation to lead effectively in an AI-enabled environment.

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Academic Program Modernization

As the battlefield rapidly evolves, the U.S. Military Academy at West Point is continuously examining its Academic Program to ensure it intellectually prepares graduates to lead now and through the next evolution of warfare. 

Learn more about program modernization
Modernizing Academic Infrastructure

The Academic Building Upgrade Program (ABUP) s a comprehensive, multi-decade modernization effort that enhances the Academy’s ability to develop agile, adaptive leaders prepared to think, decide, and fight effectively in complex operational environments.

Learn more about ABUP
Intellectual Theme: Projecting Lethality

The Intellectual Theme for Academic Year 2025-26 explores how the United States can maintain a competitive edge by integrating joint, multidomain capabilities to deter aggression, strengthen alliances, and respond to emerging threats.  

Learn more about Projecting Lethality