Congress Hedges Pentagon’s AI Data Centers on Military Bases

Lawmakers are weighing new requirements and studies for DoD leases of private, hyperscale data centers on military installations amid concerns about energy and water usage, local impacts, and readiness, with some projects already underway (Fort Bliss, Dugway Proving Ground). While some officials push for oversight and environmental safeguards, others warn such constraints could slow AI advancement; Congress and the administration will continue drafting NDAA provisions and defense-spending measures to shape the policy before any new centers are finalized.