OpenAI has appointed former US Army Secretary Dan Driscoll as its Senior Counselor for National Security Modernization, creating a new leadership advisory position focused on artificial intelligence in defense and cybersecurity. The company announced the appointment on November 2, 2026, as it expands efforts to support responsible AI adoption among the United States and its international allies.

Dan Driscoll Joins OpenAI

Driscoll will advise OpenAI's senior leadership and collaborate with government officials, industry executives, academic institutions and international security partners.

According to OpenAI's official announcement, his responsibilities include identifying practical ways advanced AI can strengthen national security operations and improve decision-making.

He will also help the company's teams understand the needs of military and national security institutions, including challenges involving technology adoption and operational efficiency.

OpenAI National Security Modernization

The newly created position reflects OpenAI's growing emphasis on integrating artificial intelligence into critical security operations.

The company aims to help democratic institutions improve cybersecurity, modernize existing systems and use AI tools responsibly.

Driscoll's work will also support OpenAI's Daybreak program, which focuses on strengthening cyber resilience and protecting essential services through cooperation with international partners.

The initiative highlights opportunities to use advanced AI while maintaining human oversight and institutional accountability.

Sam Altman Welcomes Dan Driscoll

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman welcomed Driscoll's appointment and emphasized the importance of international cooperation in developing artificial intelligence.

Altman said AI should empower people and that communities should have a meaningful role in shaping how the technology develops.

He also highlighted opportunities for the United States to work with other countries to promote what OpenAI describes as democratic AI.

Driscoll said he wanted to help American security institutions and allied countries adopt rapidly developing technology responsibly.

Dan Driscoll US Army Secretary Career

Driscoll previously served as the 26th Secretary of the United States Army, overseeing military operations, modernization programs and resource management.

An Iraq War veteran, he supported efforts to accelerate technology adoption and improve military procurement.

He left his government position earlier in 2026 following reported disagreements with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth over Army leadership and modernization priorities.

His experience in military administration and emerging technologies is expected to inform his advisory work at OpenAI.

OpenAI Artificial Intelligence Defense Strategy

Driscoll's appointment comes as artificial intelligence becomes increasingly important to cybersecurity, information analysis and defense modernization.

AI systems can help security institutions process large amounts of information, reduce administrative workloads and identify potential cyber threats.

However, their use in sensitive environments also raises questions about reliability, security, human oversight and accountability.

OpenAI says its objective is to support practical and responsible technology adoption while helping democratic institutions strengthen national security capabilities.