How Can the DoD Leverage Big Data, AI and Machine Learning to Accelerate UxS Integration and Decision Making

G. Galdorisi
Naval Information Warfare Center Pacific,
United States

Keywords: AI, machine learning, unmanned systems, decision making, ethics

Summary:

The DoD has rolled out a "Third Offset Strategy" to evolve new operational concepts and technologies, especially man-unmanned teaming, to deal with potential adversaries. Unmanned systems, big data, artificial intelligence and machine learning have emerged as critical components of that strategy. The DoD is looking to big data, artificial intelligence and machine learning to enable U.S. warfighters to prevail in combat. Lieutenant General Jack Shanahan, Director, Joint Artificial Intelligence Center, noted "The most valuable contribution of AI to U.S. defense will be how it helps human beings to make better, faster and more precise decisions, especially during high-consequence operations." The Honorable James Geurts, Assistant Secretary of the Navy for RD&A has said, "If a force can harness AI to allow decision makers to make decisions faster than the adversary, it will win every time." This is a challenge, because the speed of warfare today often exceeds the ability of the human brain to make the right decision. For this reason, the DoD needs big data, artificial intelligence and machine learning to give its warfighters the edge in combat, especially when it comes to making better decisions than the adversary.