Artificial Intelligence: DOD Should Improve Strategies, Inventory Process, and Collaboration Guidance

DOD strategies state that AI will transform the character of warfare, and failure to adopt AI technology could hinder the capability of warfighters to defend our nation. DOD is making organizational changes and investing billions of dollars to incorporate AI technology, such as establishing the Joint AI Center to accelerate the delivery of AI-enabled capabilities across DOD. House Report 116-442 accompanying the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2021, includes a provision for GAO to assess DODs resources, capabilities, and plans for AI technology. This report evaluates the extent to which (1) DODs AI Strategy and associated plans include characteristics of a comprehensive strategy; (2) DOD has identified and reported AI activities across the department; and (3) DOD collaborates on its AI activities. GAO reviewed relevant laws and DOD strategies that outline plans and processes to manage AI across the department, interviewed officials, and conducted a department-wide survey. This is a public version of a sensitive report that GAO issued in February 2022. Information that DOD deemed sensitive has been omitted. GAO is making seven recommendations, including for DOD to issue guidance to include all characteristics of a comprehensive strategy; develop a high-level plan or roadmap for its AI inventory process; and finalize and issue guidance and agreements that define roles and responsibilities for AI collaboration. DOD concurred with all seven of these recommendations.