Meta, the parent company of Facebook, has officially joined the military technology sector by partnering with American defense startup Anduril in a $100 million deal. This partnership supports a wider $22 billion initiative by the U.S. Department of Defense to upgrade combat and tactical equipment using smart, wearable technology.
Under the agreement, Meta will develop advanced artificial intelligence software. Anduril will design physical field equipment, such as new helmets and extended reality (XR) headsets. These devices are intended to help soldiers detect drones from a distance, identify hidden targets, and manage autonomous weapon systems in complex combat environments. The technology builds on Meta’s experience with immersive VR platforms, adapted specifically for military use.
This move marks a shift for Meta, which is now applying its AI and XR expertise to support American troops. The collaboration is expected to deliver next-generation gear that enhances soldier performance and battlefield awareness.
The Department of Defense’s investment in smart wearables reflects the increasing role of technology in modern warfare. These devices aim to improve safety and efficiency by providing real-time data and better situational awareness to soldiers on the ground.
The partnership has also raised some political concerns. Meta’s CEO, Mark Zuckerberg, has faced criticism for his connections to figures linked to former President Donald Trump. This includes a $1 million donation to Trump’s inaugural committee and appointing UFC chief Dana White, a Trump supporter, to Meta’s board. Meta’s recent scaling back of diversity and inclusion efforts has added to speculation about a political shift within the company.
The collaboration between a major tech firm and a defense startup signals new directions for military technology. Combining AI with wearable XR gear could give soldiers improved tools to operate safely and effectively. However, the involvement of private tech companies in defense raises ethical questions about privacy, surveillance, and autonomous weapons.
