Washington. The United States is using autonomous systems and artificial intelligence based technologies in the anti-Iran military campaign. This information was given by War Secretary Pete Hegseth on Wednesday. During an ‘Operation Epic Fury’ briefing at the Pentagon, Hegseth confirmed that advanced technologies are playing a key role in the conflict. However, he refused to share detailed information.

“We have a lot of autonomous systems, drones and other systems that include smart AI technology. Many of these I can’t discuss here,” he said. The use of autonomous systems reflects the growing role of AI in modern warfare, particularly in drone operations, surveillance and target identification.

According to US officials, the current campaign includes long-range strikes, naval operations and precision air strikes, which are being conducted with the aim of destroying Iran’s military infrastructure. Joint Chiefs of Staff, Air Force General Dan Kane, said the US had hit thousands of targets in the first phase of the operation. He said that till now, we have attacked more than 2,000 targets.

The three main objectives of this military operation are to destroy Iran’s ballistic missile systems, disable the Iranian navy and ensure that Iran cannot rapidly rebuild its military capabilities. “First, we are targeting Iran’s ballistic missile systems. Second, we are destroying the Iranian navy. Third, we are ensuring that Iran cannot rapidly rebuild its combat capability,” Kaine said.

The Pentagon said that as the campaign is progressing, American forces are changing tactics – earlier there were long-range strikes, now direct and precise strikes are being conducted on Iran. “CENTCOM is now transitioning from long-range strike packages to direct, precision strikes against Iran,” Kane said.

The US says that these operations are to maintain constant pressure on Iranian forces and disrupt their ability to launch missiles and drones. According to US officials, the intensity of Iranian attacks has declined significantly since the conflict began.

“Iranian theater ballistic missile shots have decreased by 86 percent compared to the day before,” Kane said. Despite this, US military officials warned that the conflict remains dangerous and unpredictable. “These operations are complex, dangerous, and far from over,” Kane said. ‘Operation Epic Fury’ was launched this week as tensions between Iran and the US escalated over missile attacks and nuclear programs, leading to the most serious military confrontation in the Middle East in recent years.