The U.S. Cyber Command (CYBERCOM) has requested $138 million for its “AI for Cyber Operations” program in FY27, a sharp increase from the $5 million allocated in FY26. The proposed increase reflects the command’s effort to strengthen cyber capabilities amid escalating digital threats and intensifying geopolitical competition, particularly from China.

“To maintain decision superiority in this environment, USCYBERCOM must field AI capabilities that allow cyber operators to process large volumes of data, identify malicious activity, and respond to threats faster than human operators alone can achieve. AI-enabled tools provide the ability to find, characterize, and counter adversary activity at machine speed, ensuring the United States can maintain freedom of action in cyberspace,” the budget document reads.
The funding request covers a broad range of capabilities, including intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance, automated mission planning, malware analysis, target development, and intelligence exploitation.

CYBERCOM also plans to invest in cloud-based generative AI models, AI assurance, and workforce training to prepare cyber personnel for increasingly complex digital environments.
As part of its broader AI strategy, CYBERCOM established an AI task force within the Cyber National Mission Force in 2024 and appointed Brig. Gen. Reid Novotny as Chief AI Officer. The command now plans to expand similar AI-focused teams across its operations to accelerate adoption and scale successful pilot initiatives.