Pentagon’s AI Projects Increased by 50 Percent

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New technologies like artificial intelligence (AI), autonomy, and robotics will change the character of warfare, resulting in a faster, more lethal, and more distributed battlefield. In efforts to keep technological pace with China and other adversaries, the US Department of Defense is leveraging technological advantages and investing in cutting-edge technologies like AI, hypersonic technology, cyber, and quantum computing, among others. 

DOD leaders plan to invest $874 million next year in AI-related technologies to boost deterrence against potential adversaries like China, as well as to enhance efficiencies in computing, command and control, and logistics.

The federal fiscal year 2022 DOD budget reveals the projects for which the Pentagon experts are asking Congress for AI funding.

The Pentagon’s AI efforts now number more than 600, which is up about 50 percent over current-year levels, DOD officials say. The efforts in AI primarily are part of the military’s $2.3 billion science and technology research budget, and revolve around the military Joint Artificial Intelligence Center’s (JAIC) in Washington.

Emerging technologies include AI and machine learning; quantum science; neuroscience; novel engineered materials; understanding human and social behavior; engineered biology; and manufacturing sciences.

Much of the AI funding from the separate military services filters through the JAIC. Navy leaders say they plan to capitalize on emergent, game-changing technologies through targeted investments in AI, cyber weapons, unmanned technologies, directed energy, and hypersonics. Special Operations Command also is investing in AI to increase the speed of processing, exploitation, and dissemination for intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance, as reported by militaryaerospace.com.

In the Pentagon’s 2022 research and development budget request, the Army is asking for $10.2 million for AI and machine learning basic research; for $15 million for AI and machine learning applied research; and for $909,000 for AI and machine learning advanced technologies.

The 2022 DISA research budget request asks for $10 million for JAIC operational systems development; and for $186.6 million for JAIC software and digital pilot programs.