HARNESSING ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE FOR HUMAN INTELLIGENCE OPERATIONS

Abstract

The thesis investigates the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and human intelligence (HUMINT), analyzing how AI can support and transform HUMINT operations. It reviews AI's benefits and explores opportunities and challenges of AI integration in intelligence collection. Examining the agent recruitment cycle, this research highlights how AI technologies like behavioral analytics and generative modeling can enhance traditional and cyber HUMINT operations. This thesis presents a typology of human-AI interaction interfaces, from traditional input devices to advanced modalities like voice-controlled systems and brain-computer interfaces (BCI), assessing their practicality for HUMINT applications with military and law enforcement contexts. Methodologically, comprehensive research combines qualitative analysis of open-source doctrinal material and technology reports, framed within intelligence practitioners' operational needs. Key findings show that AI can increase operational efficiency, accelerate source handling, and reduce cognitive load by providing real-time support. The research concludes that AI is best positioned as a force multiplier for HUMINT rather than as a replacement, and it offers strategic recommendations for defense and intelligence agencies regarding responsible implementation. This work contributes to a growing field of AI-HUMINT integration focusing on adaptive training and secure AI integration for mission success in the modern threat landscape.Distribution Statement A. Approved for public release: Distribution is unlimited.Lieutenant Colonel, Hungarian Ground Force