CDAO Officer: Data Sharing Hinders DOD’s Modernization, AI Adoption

A key challenge in the Department of Defense’s modernization efforts, including the adoption of artificial intelligence, is sharing data with industry partners and foreign collaborators, according to Bill Streilein, chief technology officer of the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office.

During his speech at an event hosted by Defense One, Streilein noted that while data sharing technology is readily available, policy limitations tied to data classification impede cooperation, Defense .gov reported.

He said the Pentagon is currently engaged in discussions to streamline data sharing within the department, identifying which data need special protection and which can be shared.

The discussions are prompted by recent conflicts in Ukraine and Israel, which emphasized the critical role of data exchange, according to Streilein.

Streilein also highlighted the importance of talent management and training, citing recently launched AI and data analytics courses at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology and Johns Hopkins University catering to senior leadership.