The US Government Accountability Office (GAO) claims that the Pentagon lacks a “comprehensive” strategy for acquiring artificial intelligence (AI) tools for future use.
In its recent report, the investigative arm of the US Congress said the country’s defense department has not issued a service-specific outline about how it would approach AI procurement plans.
This is despite the Pentagon and the military already acquiring, developing, and using AI in some of their systems.
“It is especially important that DoD (Department of Defense) and the military services issue guidance to provide critical oversight, resources, and provisions for acquiring AI given that the US will face AI-enabled adversaries in the future,” the report noted.
Without comprehensive guidance, the Pentagon is reportedly risking spending money on technologies that do not address future challenges associated with AI.
The US DoD plans to spend heavily on AI technologies, requesting more than $1 billion to support various AI efforts in 2024.
Recommendations
The GAO suggested that the Pentagon’s chief digital and AI office immediately create a guideline that indicates concrete plans and timelines for AI acquisitions.
The strategy must also reportedly include key factors that private companies often consider when procuring AI technologies.
Additionally, the DoD is advised to further understand its mission needs, make a business case about AI, tailor the contracting approach, and plan future efforts.
