Reports describe a covert Pentagon office for disrupting foreign technology

The Pentagon quietly established the Information on the Technology Support Office (TSO) in April by merging two classified intelligence programs that had been active since 2023, according to TechRadar, which cites reporting by Politico. The programs were intended to covertly sabotage foreign technology.

Current and former US national security officials told Politico that the office is meant to expand those efforts globally. The TSO reportedly focuses on foreign technologies seen as potential threats, including malicious uses of artificial intelligence, drones and robotics. Tactics could include cyberattacks, supply chain disruptions and disinformation operations.

The office does not reportedly launch operations directly. Instead, it procures tools through teams of engineers, special operators and intelligence officers, and connects Pentagon programs while serving as a center for approved cyber sabotage tools that other Pentagon units can use.

Some officials quoted by Politico supported the effort, while others questioned how it is overseen and regulated. They raised concerns that limited transparency could allow the office to exceed its authority. One current US national security officer told Politico that classified work creates more opportunities to hide or misdirect.

Deputy Pentagon Press Secretary Jacob Bliss disputed the claims in a statement to Politico, saying the inquiry relied on information that was “simply not true.” The reporting also noted past controversies involving US intelligence programs, including Project SHAMROCK and COINTELPRO.