WASHINGTON — The Pentagon is seeking $2.3 billion from Congress over the next five years to expand its Maven smart system, a platform developed by Palantir Technologies that has eased the integration of artificial intelligence into frontline military operations.
The funding request, outlined in fiscal year 2027 budget documents released April 21, will support both the Maven data platform and the related “Joint Fires Network,” designed to connect battlefield intelligence directly to weapon systems across the armed services.
This proposal represents a significant enhancement to the program. Last year, Maven-related work was given nearly $1.3 billion in funding through 2029.
The Maven Smart System has its roots in Project Maven, which was launched in 2017 to accelerate the military’s adoption of artificial intelligence. Initially focused on analyzing drones and surveillance imagery, the effort has expanded into a comprehensive platform that receives and processes data from satellites, radar and other sensors to identify objects and potential threats in real time.
Control of MAVEN’s geospatial intelligence functions was transferred to the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency in 2022, which manages satellite imagery and related data streams. But the system’s reach has since expanded far beyond intelligence analysis.
By connecting Maven with a joint fires network, the Pentagon is connecting AI-generated insights to units operating artillery, aircraft, naval systems and other strike assets.
The change reflects a shift in how the military is approaching artificial intelligence. Earlier efforts focused on intelligence gathering and analysis. Maven’s expansion shows that AI is getting closer to operational decision making and targeting.
Palantir has a contract for the Maven system with the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency, as well as software licensing contracts in the Army, Navy, Air Force, and Space Force.
Analysts at investment firm William Blair, citing discussions with military users, said the system has gained popularity within the services. “The Maven Smart System is now being used as the DoD’s primary battlefield command-and-control, targeting, and situational awareness platform,” the firm wrote in a note to investors April 22.
Analysts said the new funding request marks the first time Maven has been highlighted as a core budget priority rather than a niche or experimental effort. He noted that the Maven funding is likely part of the $10 billion indefinite-delivery, indefinite-quantity contract The vehicle was awarded to Palantir last year.
The Pentagon’s 2027 budget proposal includes an estimated $58.5 billion related to artificial intelligence. The budget documents said AI is “transforming from dispersed projects to an integrated national security approach” as the US looks to compete in what officials characterize as an emerging AI arms race.
