Pentagon Narrows Down Tech Priorities

The Pentagon is planning to reduce its list of "critical technology" areas. Emil Michael, the undersecretary for research and engineering, shared this news at a recent conference. He explained that the current list has become too long and diluted in importance. Michael took over from Heidi Shyu, who had established 14 critical technology areas in 2023. These areas included artificial intelligence, quantum technology, biotechnology, and advanced materials. Each area had a leader, but Michael believes the list needs to be shorter. When asked about specific technologies, Michael hinted that artificial intelligence, directed energy, and hypersonics would remain on the list. He promised more details in a month. He emphasized that the goal is to focus on the most important technologies, even if others are still valuable. Michael highlighted artificial intelligence as a major opportunity for the Department of Defense. He mentioned how AI tools like ChatGPT and Grok are widely used and could be beneficial for millions of employees and workers. He also addressed concerns about the Chief Digital & AI Office being moved under his department, assuring that this change will strengthen partnerships with AI providers. Directed energy weapons and hypersonics are also important, according to Michael. He believes these technologies can make defense more cost-effective, especially against groups like the Houthis. He wants to leverage industry relationships to get these technologies to warfighters quickly and at scale. Michael emphasized the need for more companies and technicians to support the defense industrial base. He wants to increase competition and capacity in the supply chain. He also stressed the importance of leveraging private sector investments in AI, which amount to billions of dollars annually.