An artificial intelligence hub spearheaded by the Department of the Air Force and the Massachusetts Institute of Technology is now welcoming participation from the Marine Corps. Previously, the DAF-MIT AI Accelerator had only included airmen and guardians from the active-duty military.

Two Marines have now been chosen for the upcoming cohort of “Phantoms.” During the five-month program, they will engage in research and are expected to produce a “publishable impact paper” detailing their findings, as outlined in the release.

“Marines have always been innovators, from amphibious operations to naval aviation, and will continue to carry on that tradition. AI presents yet another opportunity for Marines to showcase their ability to fuse technology, people, and processes to generate favorable outcomes across the competition continuum,” Lt. Gen. Matthew G. Glavy, deputy commandant, information, of the United States Marine Corps, said.

The DAF-MIT AI Accelerator seeks to drive fundamental AI research to enhance Air Force operations and address broader societal needs. By incorporating Marines into the program, it marks a key move toward a more integrated and technologically advanced joint force.

“Partnering with MIT and the DAF AI Accelerator provides an opportunity to rapidly upskill our Marines to support the Marine Corps’ acceleration of AI adoption, ultimately leading to increased decision advantage for commanders at all echelons,” Glavy added.