On Tuesday afternoon of WEST 2025, the panel AI - Enabled Warfighters and Warfighting: Foundations for Talent and Technology at Speed and Scale brought together military leaderships, researchers, warfighters and AI practitioners for a discussion on one of the most pressing challenges in modern warfighting—how to accelerate AI adoption while ensuring operational effectiveness, security and force readiness. Moderated by VADM Ann E. Rondeau, USN (Ret.), President of the Naval Postgraduate School (NPS), the panel examined how AI can support operational needs while maintaining momentum in a rapidly evolving battlespace.
The discussion featured insights from panelists:
RADM Mike Brookes, USN – Commander, Office of Naval Intelligence
RADM Christopher Sweeney, USN – Director, Integrated Warfare (N9I), Office of the Chief of Naval Operations
LTC Charlie Rowan, USA – Interim Director & Assistant Professor, MOVES Institute, NPS
Capt. Ace Padilla, USMC – Operations Analysis Master’s Student, NPS
LT Artem Sherbinin, USN – Chief Technology Officer, Task Force Hopper, U.S. Naval Service Forces
Howard Pace – Professor of Practice, Acquisition Management, NPS
A key theme of the discussion was the importance of human capital and co-development in AI advancement. Lt. Col. Charlie Rowan, emphasized that AI cannot be entirely outsourced to industry; the Department of Defense must remain directly involved in co-evolution and co-development. Investing in engineers, coders, operators and decision-makers at all levels will ensure a competitive advantage by cultivating expertise within the force rather than relying on external solutions.
NPS student Capt. Ace Padilla, brought value, highlighting how applying an operational lens to AI research strengthens real-world applications. His work at NPS on AI-enabled identification of misinformation and disinformation is one way research can directly support the operational field, bridging the gap between theory and practice.
The panel also explored partnerships and innovation pipelines, with NPS serving as a hub for access to emerging technologies and experimentation. By developing an AI-enabled student body, NPS helps create educated operators who are better prepared to integrate AI into fleet operations. Howard Pace reinforced that aligning AI advancements with acquisition strategies ensures technology is fielded fast and securely.
As AI shapes future defense strategy, panelists agreed that data-driven decision-making and workforce development are essential to sustaining momentum. Rear Adm. Christopher Sweeney, and Rear Adm. Mike Brookes, stressed that AI must not only support current operational needs but also anticipate future challenges, ensuring the Department of Defense stays ahead of emerging threats.
The need for collaboration between the DOD and industry to facilitate innovation is clear. By asking the right questions and engaging in critical dialogue, military leadership can guide AI development in ways that directly support operational success and .
As AI continues to evolve, NPS remains committed to educating the next generation of AI-enabled warfighters, fostering innovation, and ensuring the Department of Defense can integrate and leverage AI at the speed of technology.
