SOCOM exploring how AI can process biometrics, other data gathered by operators

U.S. Operators with 10th Special Forces Group take part in a joint training exercise with UK and Polish forces in Colorado Springs, Colorado, June 5, 2025. (U.S. Army photo by Sgt. Rhianna Ballenger)

By Drew F. Lawrence • Jan 09, 2026

Special Operations Command is exploring how artificial intelligence can process data gathered by its operators, according to a special notice, which also seeks industry information on facial recognition, speaker identification and DNA profiling capabilities.

Elite U.S. troops use a process called sensitive site exploitation (SSE) to collect information from people or material during an operation. This data then helps the military build intelligence packets for future missions or support criminal prosecutions, according to the Army. A well-known example of SSE occurred during Operation Neptune Spear, when Navy SEALs recovered documents, drives and electronic equipment from Osama bin Laden’s compound.

But these missions can also mean collecting information directly from humans. Both conventional and special operations forces used various systems to extract biometric data from both friends and foes for years during the Global War on Terror.