The US Department of Defense (DoD) has announced the establishment of a special task force that will analyze and integrate generative AI tools, such as large language models (LLMs), across the Department.
The unit - also known as Task Force Lima - will be led by Dr. Craig Martell, the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO), to assess, synchronize, and employ generative AI capabilities while safeguarding national security.
"The DoD has an imperative to responsibly pursue the adoption of generative AI models while identifying proper protective measures and mitigating national security risks that may result from issues such as poorly managed training data. We must also consider the extent to which our adversaries will employ this technology and seek to disrupt our own use of AI-based solutions," said Dr. Craig Martell, the DoD Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer.
Highlighting the pivotal role of the Department in integrating generative AI tools, Deputy Secretary of Defense Dr. Kathleen Hicks said:
"The establishment of Task Force Lima underlines the Department of Defense's unwavering commitment to leading the charge in AI innovation. As we navigate the transformative power of generative AI, our focus remains steadfast on ensuring national security, minimizing risks, and responsibly integrating these technologies. The future of defense is not just about adopting cutting-edge technologies, but doing so with foresight, responsibility, and a deep understanding of the broader implications for our nation."
The task force will collaborate with the Department, Intelligence Community, and other government agencies to reduce redundancies and enhance efficiency in pursuing generative AI projects. Given the potential of artificial intelligence technology, the Department plans to enhance its operations in warfighting, business affairs, readiness, and policy.
U.S. Navy Capt. M. Xavier Lugo, Task Force Lima mission commander and member of the CDAO's Algorithmic Warfare Directorate said: "The DoD recognizes the potential of generative AI to significantly improve intelligence, operational planning, and administrative and business processes. However, responsible implementation is key to managing associated risks effectively."
Launching into action in June 2022, the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office is responsible for accelerating the DoD's adoption of data, analytics, and AI, enabling the Department's digital infrastructure and policy adoption to deliver scalable AI-driven solutions for enterprise and joint use cases.
