First Lady Melania Trump delivered a significant address at Marine Corps Air Station New River in Jacksonville, North Carolina, where she highlighted the transformative impact of artificial intelligence on modern warfare and defense strategies.
Historic Visit and Stark Warning
On Wednesday, November 19, 2025, Melania Trump made her first joint appearance with Second Lady Usha Vance at the Marine Corps Air Station. During her remarks to troops and military families, she acknowledged the Marine Corps' 250 years of dedicated service while issuing a powerful warning about technological changes in combat.
"Technology is changing the art of war," declared the First Lady. She emphasized that "Predictably, AI will alter war more profoundly than any technology since nuclear weapons," marking one of her most substantial public statements on defense technology.
The Shift to Autonomous Warfare
Mrs. Trump detailed the ongoing transition from human-operated systems to AI-driven autonomous platforms in military operations. "We are moving from human operators to human overseers — fast," she stated, underscoring the rapid pace of this transformation.
The First Lady outlined specific examples of autonomous systems already in use or development: autonomous helicopters, swarming drones, reconnaissance aircraft, fighter-less jets, and autonomous bombers. She emphasized that "The shift from soldiers to machines is already underway" and accelerating rapidly.
Speed as the Game-Changer
Among the various impacts of artificial intelligence on warfare, Melania Trump identified speed as the most critical factor. "The most significant change will be speed," she explained, noting how AI's processing capabilities will revolutionize military response times and decision-making processes.
Despite the growing role of technology, the First Lady reassured that "it is the Marine who will always play the most critical role in realizing mission success." She balanced her technological predictions with continued emphasis on human valor and judgment in military operations.
Tribute to Military Families
Melania Trump concluded her address with heartfelt appreciation for service members and their families. She expressed gratitude "to every service member — thank you for standing watch so others can celebrate in peace" and specifically acknowledged military spouses and children for their strength and love.
Her closing remarks highlighted national unity, stating "As we give thanks this season, let us remember what unites us — our shared love of country, our faith in one another and our pride in those who serve." This visit marked a significant moment in her public engagement with military affairs and technological policy discussions.
