Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO)
Accelerating DoD adoption of data, analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI) from the boardroom to the battlefield to enable decision advantage.
Curated By: Dr Shane Turner
LATEST NEWS

www.ai.mil

Organization

The official website for the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office.

About the CDAO
The Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO) is the principal organization within the United States Department of Defense dedicated to transforming the Department by harnessing the power of data, analytics, and artificial intelligence (AI). Our core mission is to accelerate the development, integration, and adoption of cutting-edge capabilities that provide a decisive decision advantage across all domains of military operations – air, land, sea, cyber, and space.
As a central coordinating body, the CDAO drives the DoD's enterprise-wide AI and data strategy. We bring together diverse expertise in technology, policy, and operations to ensure a unified approach to digital modernization. Our work directly supports the warfighter by providing advanced tools and insights, from strategic planning in the Pentagon to real-time tactical implementation on the battlefield, ultimately ensuring the U.S. maintains technological superiority in a complex global environment.
The CDAO actively collaborates with various DoD components, industry partners, and academic institutions to foster innovation and implement advanced solutions. Our efforts span key areas such as developing the ADVANA platform for advanced analytics, supporting CJADC2 integration for seamless information flow, and building Open DAGIR to establish robust data governance and infrastructure.
Mission-Focused
Delivering AI capabilities that directly enhance warfighter effectiveness and operational readiness, from predictive maintenance to autonomous systems.
Ethically Grounded
Ensuring all AI development and deployment strictly adheres to DoD's principles for responsible and trustworthy AI use, prioritizing human oversight and accountability.
Innovation Driven
Continuously exploring and integrating emerging technologies, like advanced machine learning and quantum computing, to maintain strategic advantage and adapt to evolving threats.
Our Strategic Vision
The CDAO envisions a Department of Defense where data is treated as a strategic asset, where analytics provide actionable insights at all levels of decision-making, and where artificial intelligence capabilities are seamlessly integrated into operations. This vision supports a more agile, informed, and effective defense enterprise capable of addressing the full spectrum of national security challenges.
We are building a future where commanders and warfighters have immediate access to the information they need, when they need it, in a format that enables rapid understanding and action. By harnessing the power of data science, machine learning, and other advanced technologies, we aim to compress decision cycles and maintain information superiority against any adversary.
Our approach emphasizes responsible innovation that balances technological advancement with ethical considerations, ensuring that AI systems support human decision-makers while operating within appropriate bounds. Through strategic partnerships across the DoD, industry, and academia, we're creating an ecosystem that fosters continuous improvement and adaptation to emerging threats.
Key Initiatives Overview
The CDAO leads numerous initiatives designed to transform how the Department of Defense leverages data, analytics, and artificial intelligence. These programs span the entire spectrum from fundamental research to operational deployment, creating a comprehensive approach to digital transformation within the defense enterprise.
Each initiative addresses specific challenges and opportunities in the rapidly evolving technological landscape, while collectively advancing our mission to provide decision advantage from the boardroom to the battlefield. By coordinating these efforts under unified leadership, we ensure alignment with strategic priorities and maximize impact across the Department.
Our initiatives combine technical innovation with practical implementation, ensuring that advanced capabilities reach the hands of those who need them most. From ethical AI frameworks to cutting-edge analytical platforms, these programs represent our commitment to maintaining technological superiority while upholding American values.
Responsible AI
The CDAO champions the development and deployment of responsible and ethical artificial intelligence (AI) across the Department of Defense. As AI capabilities rapidly evolve and integrate into critical defense functions, ensuring their alignment with American democratic values, the rule of law, and international humanitarian norms is paramount.
Our Responsible AI (RAI) initiative proactively establishes comprehensive frameworks, robust policies, and practical technical approaches that rigorously guide the entire lifecycle of AI systems within the DoD – from initial development and rigorous testing to secure deployment. We are committed to ensuring that AI technologies consistently enhance human decision-making, while always preserving appropriate human judgment and control over critical functions, especially those involving the use of force.
Through the implementation of sophisticated validation protocols, including rigorous red-teaming and continuous performance monitoring, we verify that AI systems operate reliably, predictably, and avoid unintended biases or consequences. This initiative places a strong emphasis on fostering transparency in AI models, providing clear explainability of their outputs, and establishing definitive accountability for their actions across all defense applications, particularly in areas impacting human safety and rights.
Responsible AI: Core Principles
The Department of Defense's approach to artificial intelligence is guided by a set of core principles that ensure all AI development and deployment aligns with American values, international laws, and ethical standards. These principles serve as the foundation for all AI activities across the defense enterprise.
Responsible
DoD personnel will exercise appropriate levels of judgment and care while remaining responsible for the development, deployment, and use of AI capabilities.
Equitable
The Department will take deliberate steps to minimize unintended bias in AI capabilities and continuously work to identify and address bias throughout the AI lifecycle.
Traceable
AI capabilities will be developed with appropriate documentation to enable relevant personnel to understand the technology, development processes, and operational methods.
Reliable
AI capabilities will have explicit, well-defined uses, and the safety, security, and effectiveness of such capabilities will be subject to testing and assurance.
Governable
DoD AI capabilities will be designed to fulfill their intended functions while possessing the ability to detect and avoid unintended consequences.
These principles guide our approach to AI governance, testing, evaluation, and operational deployment. By adhering to these standards, we ensure that DoD's AI capabilities enhance our national security while respecting human dignity and international norms.
Analytic Tools
The CDAO develops and deploys advanced analytic tools that transform raw data into actionable insights for decision-makers across the Department of Defense. These platforms enable users at all levels to visualize complex information, identify patterns, and make data-driven decisions with greater speed and confidence.
Our flagship platform, ADVANA (Advanced Analytics), serves as an enterprise-wide solution for data integration, analysis, and visualization. ADVANA brings together financial, personnel, logistics, and operational data from disparate systems into a unified environment, breaking down traditional information silos and enabling cross-functional analysis.
These tools support a wide range of use cases, from resource allocation and financial management to operational planning and threat assessment. By democratizing access to analytics capabilities, we empower users throughout the DoD to leverage data as a strategic asset in their daily operations.
ADVANA: Advanced Analytics Platform
ADVANA (Advanced Analytics) stands as the Department of Defense's cornerstone enterprise data platform, meticulously designed to unify critical information from disparate systems across the entire defense ecosystem. This powerful system securely integrates vast datasets, encompassing financial transactions, personnel records, global logistics, real-time operational intelligence, and force readiness metrics, transforming previously isolated data into a coherent and accessible resource for analysis and decision support.
Functioning as the strategic backbone of the DoD's data strategy, ADVANA delivers both strategic foresight and tactical insights through a suite of advanced capabilities. Users benefit from highly intuitive dashboards that visualize complex scenarios, automated reporting for streamlined compliance and oversight, and sophisticated analytical tools that leverage machine learning for predictive modeling and anomaly detection. Its versatile support spans critical use cases, from optimizing financial management and achieving audit readiness, to dynamic operational planning, comprehensive supply chain optimization, and precise personnel readiness assessment.
Looking ahead, the ADVANA roadmap is focused on expanding its capabilities to meet the evolving demands of modern defense. Future enhancements will include deeper integration with emerging AI models for predictive maintenance and threat assessment, enhanced cross-domain data fusion, and the development of modular analytical applications tailored for specific mission sets. This continuous evolution ensures that ADVANA remains at the forefront of data-driven decision-making, providing unparalleled situational awareness and operational advantage. Users are encouraged to stay tuned to tradewinds.ai for forthcoming announcements regarding new features and expanded functionalities.

For the latest developments and announcements on ADVANA's evolving capabilities, visit tradewinds.ai.
CJADC2: Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control
The CDAO plays a critical role in advancing Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control (CJADC2), a transformative initiative that strengthens multi-domain operations by integrating data and capabilities across the Department of Defense. This effort is fundamental to enabling synchronized operations across air, land, sea, space, and cyberspace domains.
CJADC2 represents a new approach to joint warfighting, creating a network of sensors, shooters, and command nodes that can rapidly share information and coordinate actions across service boundaries. By breaking down traditional stovepipes, this initiative enables commanders to make faster, more informed decisions in complex operational environments.
Our work focuses on developing the data fabric, artificial intelligence capabilities, and interoperability standards that make CJADC2 possible. Through these efforts, we're helping to create a more connected, resilient, and lethal joint force capable of operating effectively against sophisticated adversaries.
CJADC2: Connecting the Joint Force
Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control (CJADC2) represents a fundamental shift in how military operations are planned and executed. By creating seamless, data-driven connections between sensors, decision-makers, and weapons systems across all domains—land, sea, air, space, and cyber—CJADC2 enables unprecedented speed and precision in military operations.
Sensor Integration
Integrating real-time data streams from diverse assets, including satellite reconnaissance, unmanned aerial systems, ground-based sensors, and cyber intelligence, to forge a single, dynamic common operational picture for commanders at all echelons.
Data Fusion
Harmonizing vast datasets—from raw intelligence feeds and logistics manifests to weather patterns and adversary movements—into a unified, actionable intelligence product, enabling proactive responses and holistic understanding of the battlespace.
Decision Support
Employing advanced AI and machine learning algorithms for predictive analytics, scenario modeling, and automated wargaming, empowering commanders with data-driven recommendations to make rapid, optimized decisions in high-stakes environments.
Synchronized Action
Orchestrating precise, cross-domain responses by connecting validated intelligence directly to kinetic and non-kinetic effects, facilitating real-time targeting, dynamic resource allocation, and overwhelming synchronized action against emergent threats.
The CDAO contributes significantly to CJADC2 by developing the robust data architecture, cutting-edge AI capabilities, and intuitive analytical tools that form the essential backbone of this interconnected battlespace. Our work ensures that the right information reaches the right decision-maker at the right time, regardless of service or domain boundaries, maximizing operational effectiveness.
Open DAGIR: Data and AI Governance Infrastructure and Resources
Open DAGIR (Data and AI Governance Infrastructure and Resources) is the CDAO's multi-vendor ecosystem that integrates data platforms, development tools, and services across the Department of Defense. This initiative creates a coherent environment for data management, analytics, and AI development while maintaining flexibility and avoiding vendor lock-in.
By establishing common standards, interfaces, and governance mechanisms, Open DAGIR enables interoperability between different systems and tools, allowing users to select the best capabilities for their specific needs. This approach combines the benefits of enterprise-wide coordination with the innovation and specialization of a diverse vendor ecosystem.
Open DAGIR supports the entire lifecycle of data and AI projects, from data collection and curation to model development, testing, and deployment. Through this comprehensive framework, we're accelerating the delivery of data-driven capabilities to warfighters while ensuring responsible governance and management of DoD's data assets.
Open DAGIR: Building a Flexible Ecosystem
Open DAGIR represents a paradigm shift in how the Department of Defense approaches data and AI infrastructure. Rather than relying on monolithic, proprietary systems, this initiative creates an open ecosystem where multiple vendors and technologies can interoperate through standard interfaces and protocols.
This approach offers several key advantages. It prevents vendor lock-in, allowing the DoD to leverage best-of-breed solutions for different capabilities. It promotes innovation by making it easier for new technologies to integrate with existing systems. And it creates resilience through diversity, reducing single points of failure in critical data infrastructure.
Data Management
Standardized approaches to data collection, storage, curation, and access across the enterprise
Development Environment
Tools and platforms for building, testing, and deploying analytics and AI applications
Governance Framework
Policies, processes, and technical controls to ensure responsible data and AI use
Integration Services
Capabilities that enable different systems to work together through standard interfaces
Through Open DAGIR, the CDAO is creating a foundation for sustainable, scalable data and AI capabilities that can evolve with changing technologies and requirements while maintaining enterprise coherence and governance.
DoD Digital Workforce
The CDAO is actively expanding access to critical data, analytics, and AI expertise across the Department of Defense through our comprehensive Digital Workforce initiative. Recognizing that human capital is the most critical accelerant for digital transformation, we are committed to cultivating a highly skilled workforce essential for realizing the full potential of these advanced technologies.
Our strategic approach encompasses multiple dimensions: Recruiting top-tier talent from leading industry firms and academic institutions for specialized roles such as AI/ML Engineers, Data Scientists, and Cybersecurity Analysts. We leverage expedited hiring authorities and innovative recruitment drives to attract the best. Developing existing DoD personnel through robust upskilling and reskilling initiatives, including advanced AI/ML certification tracks, immersive data science bootcamps, and executive education programs tailored for digital leadership. We are also creating new career pathways and job series that explicitly recognize and reward digital skills, ensuring long-term retention and growth for our technical experts. This is complemented by the establishment of vibrant communities of practice that foster continuous knowledge sharing, collaborative problem-solving, and professional mentorship across various digital disciplines.
Through strategic partnerships with leading universities, defense industry innovators, and other government agencies, we are expanding the pipeline of qualified candidates and creating unparalleled opportunities for continuous learning and joint research. These concerted efforts ensure that the DoD possesses the necessary human capital to rapidly develop, securely deploy, and effectively utilize cutting-edge data and AI capabilities in support of the national security mission.
Building the DoD Digital Workforce
The Department of Defense's digital transformation depends on having the right people with the right skills in the right positions. The CDAO's Digital Workforce initiative addresses this critical need through a comprehensive approach to talent management, development, and deployment.
Education & Training
Developing curricula and learning pathways for different roles and skill levels, from basic data literacy to advanced AI engineering
Talent Acquisition
Creating innovative approaches to attract top digital talent from diverse sources, including direct hiring authorities and specialized recruitment programs
Career Development
Establishing clear career paths and progression opportunities for data scientists, AI engineers, and other digital specialists
Communities of Practice
Fostering networks of practitioners to share knowledge, best practices, and lessons learned across organizational boundaries
By addressing the full spectrum of workforce needs, from recruitment to retirement, this initiative ensures that the DoD can build and maintain the digital talent base required for long-term technological superiority. Our goal is to make the Department of Defense an employer of choice for top digital talent while developing the capabilities of our existing workforce.
AI Rapid Capabilities Cell
The AI Rapid Capabilities Cell (AI RCC) is leading efforts to accelerate next-generation artificial intelligence across the Department of Defense. This specialized team focuses on identifying, developing, and deploying cutting-edge AI technologies that address critical operational needs and provide asymmetric advantages to U.S. forces.
Operating with streamlined processes and authorities, the AI RCC bridges the gap between research and operational deployment, moving promising technologies from concept to capability with unprecedented speed. The cell works closely with operational units to understand their requirements and ensure that AI solutions are tailored to real-world needs.
By leveraging commercial innovations, academic research, and internal DoD developments, the AI RCC creates a portfolio of AI capabilities that spans multiple domains and mission areas. This agile approach to technology development ensures that the Department can rapidly respond to emerging threats and opportunities in the AI landscape.
AI Rapid Capabilities Cell: Accelerating Innovation
The AI Rapid Capabilities Cell (AI RCC) represents the Department of Defense's commitment to maintaining technological superiority through accelerated adoption of artificial intelligence. This specialized team combines technical expertise, operational knowledge, and streamlined acquisition processes to deliver AI capabilities at the speed of relevance.
Unlike traditional development programs that may take years to field new technologies, the AI RCC operates on compressed timelines, rapidly moving from concept to prototype to operational capability. This approach is essential in the fast-moving field of artificial intelligence, where new breakthroughs emerge continuously and potential adversaries are investing heavily.
Problem Identification
Working with operational units to identify high-impact use cases where AI can provide significant advantages
Technology Scouting
Surveying commercial, academic, and government research to find the most promising AI solutions for DoD needs
Rapid Prototyping
Quickly developing and testing initial versions of AI capabilities in relevant environments
Operational Testing
Placing prototypes in the hands of end users for feedback and validation in realistic conditions
Transition to Scale
Moving successful capabilities into broader deployment across the Department
Through this approach, the AI RCC is delivering tangible AI capabilities that enhance warfighter effectiveness, improve decision-making, and create operational advantages across multiple domains.
Pathway to AI Readiness
The CDAO has developed a comprehensive Pathway to AI Readiness framework to help organizations across the Department of Defense assess and enhance their preparedness for adopting artificial intelligence technologies. This toolkit provides structured guidance for users and decision-makers at all levels of the enterprise.
The Pathway framework recognizes that successful AI adoption requires more than just technical capabilities. It encompasses organizational culture, data management practices, workforce skills, and governance structures that collectively enable effective use of AI. By addressing these multiple dimensions, the framework helps organizations build a strong foundation for sustainable AI implementation.
Through self-assessment tools, maturity models, and practical guidance, the Pathway to AI Readiness helps DoD components identify their current state, define their desired future state, and develop actionable plans to bridge the gap. This systematic approach ensures that AI investments are targeted at areas of greatest need and potential impact.
Pathway to AI Readiness: Key Dimensions
The Pathway to AI Readiness framework evaluates organizational preparedness across multiple critical dimensions, providing a holistic view of AI maturity and capability. This comprehensive approach ensures that all the necessary foundations are in place for successful AI adoption and implementation.
Data Readiness
Assessing the availability, quality, accessibility, and governance of data needed for AI applications
Technical Infrastructure
Evaluating computing resources, networks, and platforms required to develop and deploy AI capabilities
Workforce Capability
Measuring the skills, knowledge, and experience of personnel who will develop, deploy, and use AI systems
Operational Integration
Assessing how well AI capabilities can be incorporated into existing processes and workflows
Governance & Ethics
Evaluating frameworks for responsible oversight and management of AI development and use
Strategic Alignment
Ensuring AI initiatives support broader organizational goals and mission requirements
For each dimension, the framework provides assessment criteria, maturity levels, and recommended actions to improve readiness. This structured approach helps organizations identify their strengths and weaknesses, prioritize improvement efforts, and track progress over time.
Tradewinds
Tradewinds is the CDAO's innovative approach to connecting technology providers with Department of Defense needs. This initiative creates streamlined pathways for companies of all sizes to offer solutions to the DoD's most challenging problems in data, analytics, and artificial intelligence.
Through Tradewinds, we're reimagining how the Department discovers, evaluates, and acquires cutting-edge technologies. By reducing barriers to entry and simplifying contracting processes, we're expanding the pool of vendors who can contribute to national defense and accelerating the delivery of capabilities to end users.
Tradewinds serves as both a marketplace for existing solutions and an incubator for emerging technologies. It provides multiple contracting vehicles, technical resources, and engagement opportunities that help bridge the gap between commercial innovation and defense requirements.
Tradewinds: Connecting Innovation to Mission
Tradewinds represents a fundamental shift in how the Department of Defense engages with the agile and innovative commercial technology sector. This initiative proactively creates multiple, accelerated pathways for companies—from established defense contractors to small startups—to offer their cutting-edge solutions to pressing DoD challenges. Options are carefully tailored to align with various technology readiness levels, company sizes, and diverse operational needs, ensuring that the best ideas can quickly transition from concept to capability for the warfighter.
Commercial Solutions Opening (CSO)
A streamlined, competitive process designed for rapid evaluation and acquisition of innovative commercial technologies that address specific DoD needs, often resulting in contracts within 90 days. For example, the recent acquisition of an AI-powered predictive maintenance software for naval vessels was facilitated via CSO.
Other Transaction Authorities (OTAs)
Highly flexible contracting mechanisms that enable rapid prototyping and development of emerging technologies, bypassing traditional procurement hurdles. These are crucial for projects like developing next-generation sensor fusion capabilities or advanced cyber defense tools, allowing for iterative development and testing.
Prize Challenges
Public competitions that incentivize novel solutions to difficult technical problems through significant monetary awards and recognition. Recent challenges have focused on areas such as autonomous logistics solutions for contested environments and AI-driven threat detection algorithms, attracting diverse teams globally.
Strategic Partnerships
Long-term collaborative relationships with leading industry innovators, research institutions, and academic centers to co-develop solutions for complex, evolving technology needs. These partnerships foster shared understanding and accelerate breakthroughs in critical areas like quantum computing and secure communication networks.
Through these diverse and targeted engagement models, Tradewinds is dramatically expanding the Department's access to cutting-edge dual-use technologies while simultaneously creating new, accessible opportunities for a broader range of companies to contribute to national defense. This "win-win" approach accelerates the pace of innovation, reduces acquisition timelines, and ensures that the most impactful solutions reach the warfighter swiftly, regardless of their original source or company size.
CDAO News and Updates
Stay informed about the latest developments, announcements, and achievements from the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office. Our news section provides regular updates on program milestones, technology breakthroughs, partnership announcements, and other significant events related to the CDAO's mission and initiatives.
These updates offer insights into how the Department of Defense is advancing its capabilities in data, analytics, and artificial intelligence, and how these technologies are being applied to enhance national security. They also highlight opportunities for engagement with the CDAO through events, partnerships, and procurement activities.
From policy developments to technical innovations, our news coverage provides a comprehensive view of the CDAO's work and its impact across the defense enterprise. Regular updates ensure that stakeholders both within and outside the Department remain informed about our progress and future directions.
Senior Leadership
The CDAO is led by a team of experienced professionals with diverse backgrounds in technology, defense, and organizational leadership. These individuals provide strategic direction, policy guidance, and executive oversight for the office's wide-ranging portfolio of initiatives and programs.
Dr. Douglas (Doug) Matty
Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer
Dr. Matty leads the CDAO's efforts to accelerate DoD adoption of data, analytics, and artificial intelligence. He provides strategic vision and executive direction for the office's comprehensive portfolio of initiatives and programs.
Mr. Wade Yamada
Acting Principal Deputy Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer
Mr. Yamada serves as the principal advisor to the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Officer and oversees the day-to-day operations of the CDAO. He plays a key role in translating strategic vision into executable programs and initiatives.
Organizational Structure
The Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office is organized to effectively address the full spectrum of data, analytics, and AI challenges across the Department of Defense. Our structure combines functional expertise with mission focus, ensuring that we can deliver capabilities that meet both current and future needs.
The CDAO brings together previously separate organizations, including the Joint Artificial Intelligence Center (JAIC), the Defense Digital Service (DDS), the Advana platform team, and the Chief Data Officer organization. This consolidation creates synergies between related functions and provides a unified approach to digital transformation within the DoD.
Our organizational design emphasizes cross-functional collaboration, agile response to emerging requirements, and close partnership with stakeholders throughout the Department. By integrating diverse capabilities under unified leadership, we maximize impact and ensure alignment with strategic priorities.
Key Directorates and Functions
The CDAO's organizational structure includes several key directorates and functional areas, each focused on specific aspects of our mission. These components work together to provide comprehensive support for data, analytics, and AI initiatives across the Department of Defense.
1
Digital Enablement
Develops and maintains the technical infrastructure, platforms, and tools that support data and AI capabilities across the DoD
2
Data Insights
Leads enterprise data management, analytics, and visualization efforts, including the ADVANA platform
3
AI Capabilities
Oversees the development, testing, and deployment of artificial intelligence solutions for defense applications
4
Digital Services
Provides rapid technology solutions to critical DoD problems through agile development and technical expertise
5
Policy & Governance
Establishes frameworks, standards, and processes for responsible management of data and AI resources
6
Acquisition & Delivery
Manages procurement and contracting activities, including the Tradewinds initiative
Each directorate brings specialized expertise to the CDAO's mission while maintaining close coordination with other components. This integrated approach ensures that our initiatives benefit from diverse perspectives and capabilities while maintaining strategic alignment.
Working with the CDAO
The CDAO actively seeks partnerships and collaborations with a wide range of organizations that can contribute to our mission of accelerating data, analytics, and AI adoption across the Department of Defense. We offer multiple pathways for engagement, depending on your organization's capabilities and interests.
For technology providers, our Tradewinds initiative provides streamlined access to DoD requirements and contracting opportunities. Academic institutions can engage through research partnerships, talent development programs, and knowledge exchange activities. Other government agencies can collaborate on shared challenges and leverage our expertise and resources.
We're committed to making these partnerships as productive and efficient as possible, with clear processes for engagement and dedicated points of contact for different types of collaboration. Whether you're a small startup with innovative technology or a large organization with established capabilities, we want to hear from you.
Partnership Opportunities
The CDAO offers diverse opportunities for organizations to partner with the Department of Defense on data, analytics, and AI initiatives. These partnerships create mutual value, combining DoD mission knowledge with external expertise and capabilities to address complex challenges.
Technology Providers
  • Offer cutting-edge AI, data science, and cloud solutions through the streamlined Tradewinds contracting initiative.
  • Participate in technology demonstrations and evaluations for new data platforms, predictive analytics tools, and AI-driven cybersecurity defenses.
  • Engage in collaborative R&D projects focused on areas like explainable AI, secure data fusion, and autonomous systems for defense applications.
  • Provide specialized expertise and services in areas such as advanced machine learning development, data engineering, and MLOps deployment.
Academic Institutions
  • Conduct joint research with CDAO experts on emerging technologies such as quantum AI, advanced natural language processing for defense intelligence, and ethical AI frameworks.
  • Develop specialized curricula and training programs for military and civilian personnel in data science, AI engineering, and digital literacy relevant to national security.
  • Create talent pipelines through internships and fellowships, preparing the next generation of DoD digital workforce in areas like data architecture, analytics, and responsible AI development.
  • Host workshops and knowledge exchange events focusing on AI ethics, data governance best practices, and the integration of AI into defense operations.
Government Partners
  • Share best practices and lessons learned in enterprise data management, AI strategy implementation, and digital transformation across federal agencies.
  • Collaborate on cross-agency initiatives such as joint data sharing agreements, AI policy development, and the establishment of common data standards.
  • Coordinate on technical standards and interoperability for secure data exchange and AI model deployment across the broader government ecosystem.
  • Pool resources for shared challenges in areas like supply chain risk management through AI, humanitarian assistance, and disaster relief analytics.
These partnerships are designed to be flexible and responsive to both DoD needs and partner capabilities. We work to minimize bureaucratic barriers and create meaningful engagement opportunities that deliver real value to all participants.
Resources and Tools
The CDAO provides a variety of resources and tools to support data, analytics, and AI initiatives across the Department of Defense. These assets help organizations at all stages of their digital journey, from initial planning to advanced implementation and operational use.
Guidance Documents
Access our comprehensive guides on data strategy implementation, AI ethics and responsible use frameworks, and technical standards for data management and governance.
Assessment Tools
Utilize tools for evaluating data maturity, AI readiness, and technology capabilities, along with templates for comprehensive gap analysis.
Technical Resources
Leverage our reference implementations, code libraries, development environments, datasets, and detailed API documentation for seamless integration.
Training Materials
Enhance skills with online courses, workshop curricula, practical case studies, and tailored learning paths for various roles.
Events and Engagements
The CDAO actively participates in and hosts a dynamic calendar of events annually, designed to foster deeper engagement, share critical insights, and drive progress in data, analytics, and AI. From major defense conferences to specialized technical forums, these gatherings serve as vital platforms for collaboration across government, industry, and academia.
Conferences and Symposia
Participate in the annual 'DoD AI & Data Symposium,' featuring keynotes from senior defense leadership and panels on national AI policy, responsible AI, and data strategy implementation. Connect with CDAO experts at major defense conferences like AUSA, AFCEA TechNet, and WEST, engaging in strategic dialogues about the future of defense technology.
Technical Workshops
Engage in focused, hands-on sessions covering advanced topics such as secure data fusion, MLOps best practices, AI model validation, and the deployment of AI at the tactical edge. These workshops often include expert-led demonstrations and practical exercises on emerging tools and platforms.
Industry Days
Attend dedicated events tailored for technology providers to gain insights into specific DoD requirements, understand the CDAO's strategic priorities, and explore upcoming contracting opportunities, particularly through the Tradewinds initiative. Network directly with acquisition teams and program managers.
Hackathons and Challenges
Join competitive events like the annual 'Defense Data Challenge' or 'AI for Warfighter Hackathon,' where teams collaborate to develop innovative AI and data solutions for critical national security problems under tight deadlines. These events serve as rapid prototyping environments for new capabilities.
These events offer invaluable opportunities to connect directly with CDAO leadership, subject matter experts, and potential partners. They provide a transparent view into our latest initiatives and offer concrete pathways for contributing to the Department of Defense's digital transformation. Many events are open to participants from industry, academia, and other government agencies, fostering a broad and diverse community of practice around defense applications of data and AI.
Data Strategy Implementation
The CDAO plays a central role in implementing the Department of Defense Data Strategy, which establishes data as a strategic asset and critical resource for maintaining military advantage. This comprehensive framework guides how the Department collects, manages, and utilizes data across all functions and domains.
Our implementation approach focuses on making data visible, accessible, understandable, linked, trustworthy, interoperable, and secure. These characteristics ensure that decision-makers at all levels can leverage relevant information when and where they need it, while maintaining appropriate protections for sensitive data.
Through policy development, technical standards, governance frameworks, and capability deployment, we're creating an enterprise environment where data flows seamlessly to support operations, intelligence, business processes, and decision-making. This foundation enables advanced analytics and AI applications that transform raw data into actionable insights.
Data Strategy: Key Focus Areas
The Department of Defense Data Strategy establishes a comprehensive approach to treating data as a strategic asset. The CDAO leads implementation efforts across several key focus areas, each addressing critical aspects of effective data management and utilization.
Data Governance
Establishing policies, processes, and organizational structures for consistent data management across the enterprise
Enterprise Architecture
Developing technical standards and reference models that enable interoperability and data sharing
Talent & Culture
Building a workforce with the skills and mindset to effectively leverage data as a strategic asset
Security & Access
Implementing controls that protect sensitive information while enabling appropriate sharing
Technology & Infrastructure
Deploying platforms and tools that support the full data lifecycle from collection to analysis
Metrics & Measurement
Tracking progress and impact through quantitative and qualitative assessment
These interconnected focus areas form a comprehensive approach to data management that supports both current operations and future capabilities. By addressing all dimensions simultaneously, we ensure that the Department can fully leverage its data assets to maintain decision advantage.
AI Strategy and Vision
The Department of Defense's approach to artificial intelligence is guided by a clear strategy and vision that balances technological opportunity with ethical responsibility. The CDAO plays a leading role in shaping and implementing this strategy, ensuring that AI development and deployment align with national security objectives and American values.
Our AI vision encompasses both near-term applications that enhance existing capabilities and transformative technologies that may fundamentally change how military operations are conducted. This balanced portfolio ensures that we can deliver immediate value while preparing for longer-term technological shifts.
Central to our approach is the concept of human-machine teaming, where AI systems augment human capabilities rather than replace human judgment. We focus on creating AI that serves as a trusted partner to warfighters and decision-makers, providing insights and options while leaving critical decisions in human hands.
Strategic Advantage
Developing and deploying AI capabilities that provide asymmetric advantages against potential adversaries
Operational Integration
Incorporating AI into military operations in ways that enhance effectiveness while maintaining appropriate human control
Ethical Leadership
Setting global standards for responsible AI development and use in defense contexts
Technological Resilience
Building AI systems that are robust, reliable, and resistant to adversarial manipulation
AI Use Cases in Defense
Artificial intelligence is being applied across a wide range of defense functions, from operational support to business processes. The CDAO works with organizations throughout the Department to identify, develop, and deploy AI capabilities that address specific mission needs and create tangible value.
Intelligence and ISR
  • Automated processing and analysis of sensor data
  • Pattern recognition in complex intelligence feeds
  • Predictive analytics for threat assessment
  • Natural language processing for document analysis
Operations and Planning
  • Decision support tools for commanders
  • Course of action development and evaluation
  • Logistics optimization and predictive maintenance
  • Autonomous and semi-autonomous systems
Business and Support Functions
  • Financial management and audit support
  • HR analytics and workforce planning
  • Procurement optimization and fraud detection
  • Facilities management and energy efficiency
Training and Readiness
  • Personalized learning and skill development
  • Realistic simulations and virtual environments
  • Performance assessment and feedback
  • Readiness forecasting and management
These use cases represent just a sample of the ways AI is enhancing defense capabilities. As technology evolves and organizational maturity increases, we continue to identify new applications that create value and address emerging challenges.
Data Science and Analytics
Data science and analytics form the foundation of the CDAO's work, transforming raw information into actionable insights that drive better decisions across the Department of Defense. These disciplines combine statistical methods, computational techniques, and domain expertise to extract meaning from complex data sets.
Our approach emphasizes both the technical aspects of analytics—algorithms, models, and visualizations—and the organizational elements required for success, including data literacy, analytical workflows, and insight delivery mechanisms. This comprehensive perspective ensures that analytical capabilities translate into tangible mission impact.
From descriptive analytics that help understand past performance to predictive models that forecast future trends and prescriptive approaches that recommend optimal actions, we're building a full spectrum of capabilities that address diverse needs across the defense enterprise.
Analytics Capability Spectrum
The CDAO develops and deploys analytics capabilities across a spectrum of sophistication, from basic reporting to advanced artificial intelligence. Each level builds upon previous capabilities while adding new dimensions of insight and value.
Descriptive Analytics
Understanding what happened through reports, dashboards, and visualizations that summarize historical data and current status
Diagnostic Analytics
Determining why things happened through root cause analysis, correlation studies, and exploratory data analysis
Predictive Analytics
Forecasting what might happen through statistical models, machine learning algorithms, and simulation techniques
Prescriptive Analytics
Recommending what should be done through optimization models, decision support tools, and automated systems
Cognitive Analytics
Enabling systems that can learn, reason, and interact naturally through advanced AI techniques like deep learning and natural language processing
Organizations typically progress through these levels as they build data maturity and analytical capabilities. The CDAO provides tools, training, and support to help DoD components advance along this spectrum at a pace appropriate to their mission needs and organizational readiness.
Cloud Strategy and Implementation
Cloud computing provides the foundation for many of the CDAO's data, analytics, and AI initiatives. By leveraging cloud technologies, we enable scalable, flexible, and resilient capabilities that can adapt to changing mission requirements and technological opportunities.
Our cloud strategy emphasizes a multi-cloud approach that combines commercial services with DoD-specific platforms, creating an environment that balances security, performance, and accessibility. This hybrid model allows us to leverage commercial innovation while maintaining appropriate controls for sensitive information.
Through standardized interfaces, consistent security models, and automated deployment pipelines, we're creating a cloud ecosystem that supports the full spectrum of DoD data and AI needs. This infrastructure enables rapid development and deployment of new capabilities while ensuring operational resilience and security compliance.
Cloud Strategy: Key Elements
The Department of Defense's cloud strategy encompasses several key elements that collectively enable secure, efficient, and effective use of cloud technologies for data, analytics, and AI applications. The CDAO works closely with other DoD components to implement this strategy and leverage cloud capabilities for mission impact.
Multi-Cloud Environment
  • Leveraging multiple cloud service providers
  • Avoiding vendor lock-in through portability
  • Matching capabilities to specific requirements
  • Ensuring resilience through diversity
Security and Compliance
  • Implementing consistent security controls
  • Automating compliance verification
  • Protecting sensitive data through encryption
  • Maintaining visibility across environments
DevSecOps Practices
  • Integrating security throughout development
  • Automating testing and deployment
  • Enabling rapid iteration and improvement
  • Standardizing development environments
This comprehensive approach to cloud computing creates the technical foundation for advanced data and AI capabilities. By establishing a secure, flexible cloud infrastructure, we enable rapid development and deployment of solutions that address critical mission needs across the Department.
Digital Transformation Journey
The Department of Defense is on a multi-year journey to transform how it leverages digital technologies, with data, analytics, and AI playing central roles in this evolution. The CDAO helps guide this transformation, providing strategic direction, technical capabilities, and change management support.
This journey involves not just implementing new technologies, but fundamentally changing how the Department operates—from decision processes and organizational structures to workforce skills and cultural norms. It requires balancing rapid innovation with the reliability and security demands of national defense.
While significant progress has been made, digital transformation is an ongoing process that will continue to evolve as technologies advance and mission requirements change. The CDAO works to ensure that this evolution proceeds in a coordinated, strategic manner that maximizes value and minimizes disruption.
1
Foundation Building
Establishing basic data management practices, governance structures, and technical infrastructure
2
Capability Development
Creating analytics tools, AI applications, and digital services that address specific mission needs
3
Enterprise Integration
Connecting capabilities across organizational boundaries to enable seamless information flow and collaboration
4
Operational Transformation
Fundamentally changing how operations are conducted by fully integrating digital capabilities into core processes
Change Management and Adoption
Successful digital transformation requires more than just technology—it demands effective change management to help organizations and individuals adapt to new ways of working. The CDAO recognizes this challenge and incorporates change management principles into all of our initiatives.
Our approach emphasizes clear communication about the purpose and benefits of change, active engagement with stakeholders at all levels, and practical support for those implementing new capabilities. We work to build coalitions of advocates who can champion digital transformation within their organizations and communities.
By addressing both the technical and human dimensions of change, we increase the likelihood of successful adoption and sustainable impact. This comprehensive approach helps overcome resistance, build necessary skills, and create the conditions for lasting transformation.
Change Management Framework
The CDAO employs a structured change management framework to support the adoption of data, analytics, and AI capabilities across the Department of Defense. This approach recognizes that successful implementation requires addressing both organizational and individual aspects of change.
Awareness
Creating understanding of why change is necessary and how it connects to mission outcomes
Desire
Building motivation to participate in and support the change through engagement and incentives
Knowledge
Providing information and training on how to change and what new capabilities entail
Ability
Developing skills and removing barriers to enable successful implementation
Reinforcement
Sustaining change through feedback, recognition, and integration into standard processes
For each initiative, we develop tailored change management plans that address these elements in ways appropriate to the specific context and stakeholders involved. This systematic approach increases adoption rates and helps realize the full potential of new capabilities.
International Cooperation
The CDAO engages with international partners to advance shared interests in responsible development and use of data, analytics, and AI capabilities. These collaborations strengthen alliances, promote interoperability, and help establish global norms for emerging technologies.
Our international activities include bilateral and multilateral engagements with allied defense organizations, participation in standards development efforts, and coordination on research and development initiatives. These partnerships create opportunities to share knowledge, pool resources, and address common challenges.
Through these collaborations, we work to ensure that democratic values and ethical principles guide the global development of military AI capabilities. This approach helps counter authoritarian uses of technology while strengthening the technological advantages of the United States and its allies.
International Cooperation Priorities
The CDAO's international engagement strategy focuses on several key priorities that advance both U.S. interests and shared goals with allies and partners. These efforts recognize the increasingly global nature of technology development and the importance of coordinated approaches to common challenges.
Technical Interoperability
Developing common standards and interfaces that enable allied forces to share data and coordinate operations seamlessly
Responsible AI Principles
Promoting shared ethical frameworks and governance approaches for military applications of artificial intelligence
Collaborative Research
Coordinating R&D efforts to leverage complementary strengths and accelerate technological advancement in areas of mutual interest
Capability Development
Working with allies to build and deploy interoperable data and AI capabilities that enhance combined operations
Threat Assessment
Sharing information and analysis on adversary capabilities and potential countermeasures to maintain collective security
These priorities guide our engagement with international partners at multiple levels, from technical working groups to strategic dialogues. By working together, we strengthen not only our individual capabilities but also our collective ability to address shared security challenges.
Research and Development
Research and development activities form a critical component of the CDAO's work, ensuring that the Department of Defense maintains technological superiority in data science, analytics, and artificial intelligence. Our R&D portfolio spans from fundamental research to applied development and experimentation.
We collaborate with diverse partners, including DoD laboratories, academic institutions, industry innovators, and federally funded research centers. These partnerships leverage complementary strengths and create pathways for transitioning promising technologies from research to operational use.
Our R&D investments are guided by both current operational needs and anticipation of future requirements and technological opportunities. This balanced approach ensures that we address immediate challenges while preparing for longer-term technological evolution and potential disruptions.
R&D Focus Areas
The CDAO's research and development activities focus on several key areas that address both current capability gaps and future technological opportunities. These investments ensure that the Department of Defense maintains technological advantage in data, analytics, and artificial intelligence.
Trustworthy AI
  • Explainable AI algorithms and techniques
  • Verification and validation methodologies
  • Robustness against adversarial attacks
  • Human-AI teaming and interaction models
Advanced Analytics
  • Multi-modal data fusion and analysis
  • Automated pattern recognition and anomaly detection
  • Predictive modeling for complex systems
  • Real-time analytics at the tactical edge
Data Infrastructure
  • Distributed data architectures for contested environments
  • Secure multi-level data sharing mechanisms
  • Automated data curation and quality management
  • Edge computing for deployed operations
These research areas are complemented by technology transition initiatives that help move promising capabilities from the laboratory to operational use. By maintaining a balanced portfolio of near-term and long-term R&D investments, we ensure continuous improvement of current capabilities while preparing for future technological shifts.
Emerging Technologies
The CDAO continuously monitors and assesses emerging technologies that may impact the future of data, analytics, and artificial intelligence in defense applications. This horizon scanning helps the Department anticipate technological shifts, identify new opportunities, and prepare for potential disruptions.
We evaluate emerging technologies through multiple lenses, considering their potential military applications, technical maturity, development trajectories, and implications for strategy and policy. This comprehensive assessment informs investment decisions, experimentation priorities, and strategic planning.
While maintaining a broad awareness of the technology landscape, we focus particular attention on developments that could fundamentally change how military operations are conducted or create significant asymmetric advantages. These potentially disruptive technologies receive priority for deeper assessment and exploratory development.
Quantum Computing
Monitoring advances in quantum technologies that could transform computational capabilities for certain classes of problems
Neuromorphic Computing
Exploring brain-inspired computing architectures that offer potential advantages for energy efficiency and edge processing
Advanced Human-Machine Interfaces
Investigating new paradigms for interaction between humans and AI systems that enhance collaborative performance
Synthetic Data Generation
Evaluating techniques for creating realistic synthetic data that can augment training datasets while preserving privacy
Cybersecurity and AI
The intersection of cybersecurity and artificial intelligence represents both significant opportunities and critical challenges for the Department of Defense. The CDAO works at this nexus to develop capabilities that enhance cyber defenses while ensuring that AI systems themselves are secure against compromise.
AI technologies can dramatically improve cyber operations by automating threat detection, accelerating incident response, identifying vulnerabilities, and enhancing situational awareness. These capabilities help defenders keep pace with the increasing volume and sophistication of cyber threats facing DoD networks and systems.
At the same time, AI systems themselves present unique security challenges. Their complexity can create new attack surfaces, and their behavior may be vulnerable to manipulation through adversarial techniques. We're developing approaches to verify, validate, and secure AI systems throughout their lifecycle to ensure they remain trustworthy in contested environments.
AI for Cybersecurity
Artificial intelligence is transforming how the Department of Defense approaches cybersecurity, enabling more effective protection of critical networks and systems against increasingly sophisticated threats. The CDAO works with cyber defense organizations to develop and deploy AI capabilities that enhance security operations.
Threat Detection
AI systems that identify anomalous patterns and potential intrusions across vast amounts of network traffic and log data
Vulnerability Management
Automated discovery and prioritization of security weaknesses based on threat intelligence and system context
Incident Response
AI-assisted analysis and remediation of security incidents, accelerating response times and reducing impact
Deception Technologies
Intelligent decoys and traps that automatically adapt to adversary behavior and reveal their tactics
These AI-enhanced cybersecurity capabilities help defenders keep pace with the evolving threat landscape while making more efficient use of limited human expertise. By automating routine tasks and augmenting analyst capabilities, AI enables security teams to focus on complex challenges that require human judgment and creativity.
Future Directions
As the Department of Defense continues its digital transformation journey, the CDAO is looking ahead to the next generation of data, analytics, and AI capabilities. Our future directions are shaped by evolving mission requirements, technological opportunities, and the changing global security environment.
We anticipate a future where AI systems become increasingly capable partners to human operators and decision-makers, providing contextual awareness, generating options, and executing delegated tasks with appropriate autonomy. These human-machine teams will leverage complementary strengths to achieve performance beyond what either could accomplish alone.
Data will become increasingly ubiquitous and interconnected, flowing seamlessly across organizational and domain boundaries to support synchronized operations. Advanced analytics will transform this data into actionable insights in near-real-time, enabling faster and more informed decisions at all levels of command.
Edge Intelligence
AI capabilities that operate effectively in contested, disconnected environments at the tactical edge
Cognitive Assistants
AI systems that understand context, anticipate needs, and provide relevant support to human operators
Synthetic Environments
High-fidelity virtual worlds for training, planning, and rehearsal of complex operations
Autonomous Teaming
Coordinated groups of systems that collaborate to accomplish missions with minimal human supervision
Get Involved
The CDAO offers multiple pathways for individuals and organizations to engage with our mission and contribute to the Department of Defense's digital transformation. Whether you're a technology provider, a potential employee, or a DoD component seeking support, we want to hear from you.
For Technology Providers
  • Explore opportunities through our Tradewinds initiative
  • Participate in technology demonstrations and challenges
  • Engage with our innovation outreach programs
For Job Seekers
  • View current openings on USAJobs.gov
  • Learn about internships and fellowships
  • Explore military assignments with the CDAO
For DoD Organizations
  • Request support for data and AI initiatives
  • Access training and educational resources
  • Participate in communities of practice
For Academic Partners
  • Explore research collaboration opportunities
  • Engage in curriculum development partnerships
  • Connect students with DoD digital careers
Stay Connected
Keep up with the latest developments from the Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office through our various communication channels. These platforms provide regular updates on initiatives, events, opportunities, and achievements related to our mission of accelerating DoD adoption of data, analytics, and AI.
Official Website
Visit ai.mil for comprehensive information about our organization, initiatives, and resources
Email Updates
Subscribe to receive regular newsletters and announcements directly to your inbox
Social Media
Follow our official accounts for real-time updates, event announcements, and engagement opportunities
Events Calendar
Check our upcoming events, conferences, workshops, and speaking engagements
By staying connected with the CDAO, you'll gain insights into how the Department of Defense is leveraging data and AI to enhance national security, opportunities to engage with our initiatives, and awareness of resources that may benefit your organization.