US launches new Super Intelligence Task Force to protect American tech leadership

The U.S. Department of Justice (DOJ) has created a new task force to address criminal threats involving super intelligence (SI), putting federal prosecutors and investigators at the center of America’s emerging technology strategy. The initiative will target foreign adversaries and domestic actors who exploit advanced systems for unlawful purposes.

The DOJ Super Intelligence Task Force (DOJ-SITF) will also coordinate with the White House’s Super Intelligence Force (SIF). Its mandate extends beyond enforcement to supporting American technological leadership and protecting domestic innovation.

Associate Attorney General Stanley Woodward and Associate Deputy Attorney General Stephen Weiss will serve as co-chairs. The department will bring together several law enforcement and legal divisions to oversee the initiative.

Federal agencies coordinate enforcement

The task force will coordinate criminal investigations and civil enforcement involving SI across the Justice Department. Its members will also resolve overlaps between investigations handled by different DOJ divisions and U.S. Attorneys’ Offices.

Federal prosecutors may need to notify the task force before opening certain investigations. They must also provide notice before pursuing charges or finalizing resolutions in relevant cases, when requested.

DOJ LAUNCHES SUPER INTELLIGENCE TASK FORCE @POTUS Trump has made clear that “America stands at the forefront of a new technological revolution in intelligence,” and the Department will be a leader in safeguarding against malicious SI actors.

“The SI Task Force at the… pic.twitter.com/u0aW2eXcLS

— U.S. Department of Justice (@TheJusticeDept) November 5, 2026

The DOJ-SITF will establish enforcement priorities focused on public safety and preventing technological misuse. It will also develop prosecution guidance for unlawful SI-related activities.

Its responsibilities include evaluating corporate compliance measures. The department wants companies to maintain strong internal controls that prevent advanced systems from being exploited.

Attorney General Todd Blanche said the department would work with SI Force Chair Jay Clayton. Their partnership aims to protect critical technologies from domestic and foreign threats.

Blanche also warned that authorities would pursue individuals who misuse SI against American taxpayers. That includes threats targeting critical infrastructure and national security.

Existing AI task force absorbed

The new initiative will absorb the DOJ’s existing Artificial Intelligence Task Force, announced by Attorney General Pam Bondi in January 2026. That body will no longer operate independently.

Its personnel, ongoing work, reporting responsibilities, and existing materials will transfer to the new organization. The consolidation places the department’s existing technology enforcement efforts under one structure.

The DOJ-SITF will also serve as the department’s primary contact for the SIF. It can coordinate with other federal departments and agencies when necessary.

Innovation remains a priority

The memorandum establishing the task force also gives it a role in shaping future policy. Through the Offices of Legal Policy and Legislative Affairs, members will advise on legislative and regulatory proposals.

The stated objective is to encourage domestic Super Intelligence development without imposing burdensome regulations. The department also wants to strengthen corporate oversight and deter unlawful applications.

Woodward described the initiative as part of the DOJ’s broader public safety mission. He said the task force would support technological progress while preventing its misuse.

Associate Deputy Attorney General Stephen Weiss pointed to another responsibility. He said the department must use existing law enforcement powers to deter improper conduct and improve reporting on technological risks.

The task force brings criminal enforcement, national security oversight and technology policy under one umbrella. Its effectiveness will depend on how federal agencies identify emerging threats and respond to companies or individuals that cross legal boundaries.

Source: https://interestingengineering.com/ai-robotics/us-launches-super-intelligence-task-force