Former U.S. Army Secretary Dan Driscoll has joined OpenAI as a Senior Counselor for National Security Modernization. The appointment focuses on expanding the company’s technology for national defense and military applications. Driscoll brings extensive experience from his time leading AI modernization efforts within the Army. He previously oversaw nearly one million soldiers while driving strategic technology initiatives for the military branch.
Driscoll resigned from his Army post in late August 2026 following a public clash with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth. Despite the resignation, he maintains close ties with Vice President JD Vance and has bipartisan connections in Congress. OpenAI is actively pursuing government contracts and seeks to influence AI regulations for the military and intelligence agencies. The company previously announced a classified network deal with the Pentagon in February 2026.
This hiring comes shortly after the Pentagon classified Anthropic as a supply chain risk in 2026. Driscoll’s background in military operations and his political connections could help OpenAI navigate these complex regulatory environments. The move signals a strategic push by the company to secure its position within the defense sector. Developers and contractors working on government AI projects should monitor how this expanded military focus might alter future procurement policies.
