Trusted AI and autonomy for today’s warfighter
David Honey, Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (United States)
The Department of Defense (DoD) recognizes the imperative to embrace artificial intelligence (AI) and autonomy to effectively navigate the challenges of modern warfare. Leveraging data and analytics, including AI/autonomy, remains paramount across various DoD missions encompassing command and control, intelligence, logistics, and fires. To capitalize on the nation's AI expertise, the DoD has established AI Hubs to expedite research and innovation and launched the Accelerating Data and AI (ADA) initiative, embedding digital teams within Combatant Commands to facilitate agile decision-making. Furthermore, the Responsible AI Strategy & Implementation Pathway, released in June 2022, underscores the DoD's structured approach to fostering responsible AI development. This keynote address will offer insights into AI, autonomy, and other critical technologies, alongside detailing how the Research and Engineering (R&E) office is streamlining processes to facilitate smoother collaboration with companies interested in doing business with the Department. By prioritizing the mitigation of unintended bias in AI models and establishing robust data governance policies, the DoD aims to uphold AI ethical principles and ensure the safety, security, and trustworthiness of AI and autonomous systems deployed in defense operations.
David A. Honey is the Deputy Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering (DUSD(R&E). In this role, he assists the Under Secretary and Chief Technology Officer in managing research, development, and prototyping activities across the Department of Defense (DoD) enterprise. He also helps oversee the activities of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA), the Missile Defense Agency (MDA), the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU), the Space Development Agency (SDA), the DoD Laboratory and Engineering Center enterprise, and the Under Secretariat staff focused on developing advanced technology and capability for the U.S. military.
Dr. Honey previously served a Special Assistant to the Director, Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA). He has served in several other capacities at DARPA; as the Acting Deputy Director, the Director of the Strategic Technology Office (STO), Director of the Advanced Technology Office (ATO) and the Deputy Director of and program manager in the Microsystems Technology Office (MTO).
This keynote is part of the Autonomous Systems: Sensors, Processing, and Security for Ground, Air, Sea, and Space Vehicles and Infrastructure conference.
Event Details
FORMAT: Presentation followed by audience Q&A.MENU: Coffee, decaf, and tea will be available in the exhibition area.
SETUP: Classroom and theater style seating. .