NSA reportedly spends billions testing AI models in 2026

The National Security Agency is spending billions of taxpayer dollars in 2026 to evaluate advanced AI models, The Washington Sun reports, citing two sources familiar with classified intelligence estimates. The exact amount remains unclear, and the Pentagon declined to discuss the spending. One source said extra computing power is the largest cost so far, with specialized personnel adding another burden. The estimate has led lawmakers to think a broader federal model-testing system could cost tens of billions annually, sharpening debate over whether taxpayers or AI companies should fund independent evaluations.