DISA Takes Interest in Generative AI

The Defense Information Systems Agency has added generative artificial intelligence to its watch list.

Speaking at an AFCEA event on Jan. 25, DISA Chief Technology Officer Stephen Wallace said generative AI, the technology that underpins the ChatGPT bot, is interesting because of its ability to generate content. Wallace added that DISA is looking at how generative AI would change the agency’s mission and what it could do for the Department of Defense in the future.

One of the known uses of generative AI is ChatGPT, which was launched by OpenAI in November. ChatGPT is touted as a solution that can improve worker productivity and show the benefits and disadvantages of AI, C4ISRNET reported.

Bill Drexel, an associate fellow of technology and national security at the Center for a New American Society, said while ChatGPT is not a military system, it shows how tools like generative AI can benefit or negatively affect entities.

OpenAI CEO Sam Altman recently met with lawmakers to explain how ChatGPT works. According to the news website Semafor, Altman told policymakers that the solution still has its limitations when it comes to uses and capabilities.

ChatGPT has created a rift where some people believe in its ability to benefit entities while others argue that it can be misused.

The DISA’s interest in generative AI comes as the Defense Department ramps up its spending on the technology. According to the Government Accountability Office, the Pentagon spent $2.5 billion on AI and autonomy technologies, resulting in over 680 projects.

Military branches are also looking to adopt more automation. In November, Lauren Knausenberger, the chief information officer of the Department of the Air Force and a previous Wash100 winner, said the service needs to “automate more” to maintain dominance and to continue improving decision-making capabilities.