Pentagon seeks $30 million for AI-powered lie detector

The Pentagon is seeking approximately $30.3 million to develop an AI-enhanced lie detection program known as “Polygraph Next” or “Polygraph+.” Led by the Defense Counterintelligence and Security Agency (DCSA), the initiative aims to modernize federal polygraph and reliability assessment technologies for personnel vetting and internal threat detection.

Unlike traditional polygraphs that require physical contact to measure heart rate, blood pressure, and skin responses, this new program focuses on “standoff sensing.” This approach utilizes artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze non-contact physiological data. Previous prototypes explored by the Defense Innovation Unit included using standard cameras to monitor heart rate and respiration, as well as tracking facial skin temperature and pore activity.

Despite the technological ambitions, experts express skepticism regarding the reliability of such systems. Critics note that polygraphs measure physiological reactions rather than deception itself, and integrating AI may not resolve fundamental inaccuracies, potentially increasing the risk of false positives.