Retired Air Force Lt. Gen. David Deptula has issued a stark warning: the United States risks falling behind in military capabilities if it fails to prioritize the development of AI data centers. In a recent op-ed, Deptula, now dean of the Mitchell Institute for Aerospace Studies, emphasized that data infrastructure is no longer just a commercial asset but a cornerstone of national security.
"Data is no longer merely a tool of commerce. It is a strategic asset," Deptula wrote. "Nearly every function in the military depends on the ability to store, move, process, secure, and exploit vast quantities of data at speed and scale."
The Pentagon’s reliance on AI-powered platforms, such as those provided by Palantir, has proven critical in modern warfare. During recent conflicts in Iran, these systems enabled the rapid analysis of intelligence data, leading to the successful targeting of thousands of enemy assets within days. Similarly, Ukraine’s use of drones equipped with autonomous technology underscores the growing role of AI in combat.
However, public opposition to the construction of data centers, driven by rising electricity costs and environmental concerns, threatens to undermine this strategic advantage. Deptula warned that a shortfall in data storage and computing capacity could have catastrophic consequences for U.S. military operations. "Success in future warfare will depend on whether a belligerent has the capability to sense, decide, and act faster than an adversary," he said.
China’s rapid advancement in data infrastructure further amplifies the urgency. Deptula cautioned that the nation with superior data infrastructure will hold a decisive edge in the next era of warfare, and the U.S. cannot afford to cede this position. As debates over energy use and data center expansion intensify, the Pentagon faces a critical challenge: balancing national security needs with public sentiment and economic constraints.