Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer (CDAO) Activities

The Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer (CDAO) Activities are designed to enhance the Department of Defense's capabilities in data, artificial intelligence (AI), and digital solutions. This initiative supports the National Defense Strategy by integrating these technologies across the department to build a resilient Joint Force. The CDAO is responsible for leading strategy development for data and AI, breaking down barriers to adoption, and creating digital infrastructure. Key projects include expanding the enterprise data repository, establishing a responsible AI ecosystem, and developing an AI and Data Accelerator initiative.

The Foundational Enablers project focuses on overhauling acquisition processes within the DoD to prioritize technical and acquisition training. This effort aligns with the National Defense Strategy and aims to ensure that AI-enabled systems adhere to ethical standards while enhancing efficiency and effectiveness. The project involves developing a training platform in partnership with the Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment. This platform will provide necessary tools to implement DoD AI Ethical Principles across the AI product lifecycle.

The AI/ML Scaffolding project is dedicated to accelerating the development and adoption of AI/ML technologies by providing infrastructure, data, tools, services, and best practices. A significant component is the Responsible Artificial Intelligence (RAI) effort, which operationalizes DoD AI Ethical Principles. The RAI initiative oversees strategy implementation, coordinates with various offices within the DoD, and integrates best practices for AI governance. It also focuses on developing tools for auditability, risk management, and workforce development.

In FY 2025, efforts will continue to maintain and customize governance tools while procuring commercially available solutions to support RAI activities. The focus will be on enhancing RAI tools such as knowledge-sharing platforms, governance dashboards, auditability systems, and human-machine teaming guides. Additionally, there will be an emphasis on developing best practices frameworks and fostering partnerships through outreach initiatives like academic consortiums and mission partnerships. These activities aim to ensure that AI technologies are integrated responsibly within defense operations.