The Department of Defense (DoD) is planning to streamline its list of „critical technology” areas, reducing the number from the current count of over a dozen, according to Undersecretary for Research and Engineering Emil Michael. This move aims to sharpen the department’s focus on the most vital areas for future defense capabilities.
Dilution of Criticality
Michael explained that the current list, which has grown over time, has diluted the sense of criticality. „The critical technology areas that my component has published, historically, are statements to the world of what we think the most important things are. And so when you have a situation where everyone who comes to this job and just adds more, but they don’t take away, well, then the criticality gets diluted,” he said.
AI, Directed Energy, and Hypersonics Remain Key
While the specific number of technology areas to be cut remains undisclosed, Michael confirmed that artificial intelligence (AI), directed energy, and hypersonics will remain on the list. He indicated that further details would be revealed within a month.
Pyramid Hierarchy of Importance
Michael emphasized that reducing the list does not mean that the excluded technologies are unimportant. Instead, it creates a „pyramid hierarchy,” identifying the areas that require the most urgent attention and resources.
AI as the Biggest Opportunity
Of all the technology areas, Michael identified AI as the „biggest opportunity that DoD has to embrace going forward.” He highlighted the potential for AI to revolutionize various aspects of the department’s operations, from decision-making to logistics.
CDAO Reorganization and Industry Partnerships
Michael addressed concerns about the recent decision to move the Chief Digital & AI Office (CDAO) under the purview of R&E, rather than having it report directly to the deputy secretary of defense. He argued that this move would provide the CDAO with greater resources and the ability to forge stronger partnerships with external AI providers.
Directed Energy and Hypersonics for Cost-Effective Defense
Michael highlighted the importance of directed energy weapons and hypersonics as cost-effective defense solutions, particularly in air defense. He argued that these technologies could provide a deterrent effect and a more affordable defense mechanism.
Leveraging Industry Expertise
Michael stressed the need to leverage relationships with industry to accelerate the development and deployment of technologies like AI, hypersonics, and directed energy. Drawing on his experience in Silicon Valley, he aims to strengthen the defense industrial base and encourage innovation. He said it’s really trying to use the latent capability that’s primarily been invested in by the private industry. They’re putting $2-300 billion per year into AI, whether it be software development, data centers, and so on. So as the DoD, [let’s] leverage that for an endless list of use cases.”
