Impact of President Biden’s Executive Order on Artificial Intelligence on the Department of Defense and Industry Partners

The new executive order on artificial intelligence (AI) signed by President Joe Biden on October 30, 2023, is a comprehensive and expansive document that seeks to address security concerns associated with AI development in various sectors, including national security, economic, and social spheres​​.

This executive order has significant implications for the Department of Defense (DoD) and its industry partners in several ways:

• Focus on National Security and Defense: The executive order includes directives that specifically address national security and defense aspects of AI. It separates these aspects from other applications of AI, indicating a special focus on the use of AI in military and intelligence agencies​.
• New Data and AI Strategy by the Pentagon: Following the executive order, the DoD released a new strategy on its use of data analytics and AI. This strategy is an updated version of a blueprint first published in 2018 and reflects the significant growth of AI in the defense industrial base. The strategy emphasizes the need for better data sets, improved infrastructure, more partnerships, and the reformation of internal barriers to technology adoption​​.
• Generative AI and National Security: The Pentagon is already using AI models for various purposes and is working on expanding its operational capabilities. Over 180 instances have been identified where AI can be beneficial, ranging from analyzing battlefield assessments to summarizing data sets, including classified ones. The DoD had more than 685 AI-related ventures as of early 2021. Task Force Lima, overseen by the Chief Digital and AI Officer (CDAO), is responsible for evaluating and guiding the application of generative AI for national security purposes​.
• Budget Request for AI: The Pentagon requested $1.4 billion for AI in fiscal 2024, highlighting the department’s commitment to investing in AI technologies​​.
• Governance and Implementation Challenges: Experts have noted that while the executive order is a positive step towards addressing AI concerns, its impact could be limited due to its nature as an executive branch action, which is subject to change with new administrations. There are also questions about how the order will mesh with ongoing congressional efforts to regulate AI​.
• Implications for DoD Acquisitions and Collaborations: The executive order’s focus on safety, security, and responsible innovation in AI development is likely to influence the DoD’s acquisition processes and collaborations with industry partners. The DoD is expected to align its AI strategies and projects with the principles and priorities set forth in the executive order, which could impact current and future AI initiatives and partnerships​​.

In summary, President Biden’s executive order on AI introduces new standards, reporting requirements, and strategic directions that will significantly impact the Defense Department and its industry partners. The order’s emphasis on safe, secure, and responsible AI development aligns with the DoD’s strategic objectives, but it also presents challenges in terms of governance, implementation, and alignment with existing policies and legislative efforts.