A new audit from the DOE inspector general titled, “Progress Is Needed to Support the Department of Energy’s Integration of Artificial Intelligence Into Intelligence Activities”, highlights significant gaps and challenges in DOE efforts to adopt artificial intelligence (AI) technologies for intelligence operations.

Why It Matters

Crucial Role of AI in National Security: AI is essential for modern intelligence operations, offering capabilities to enhance data analysis, improve workflows, and strengthen decision-making.

Lack of Progress: Despite its potential, DOE’s Office of Intelligence and Counterintelligence has only fulfilled one of the 13 requirements outlined in the Intelligence Authorization Act for Fiscal Year 2023, delaying critical advancements in intelligence modernization.

Risks of Inaction:

• Outdated infrastructure hampers adoption.
• Limited funding and lack of expertise slow implementation.
• Risks of unregulated AI usage, such as bias and ethical concerns, remain unaddressed and slows deployments

Key Points

• Incomplete Implementation: DOE met only one requirement under the Act, designating a Chief AI Officer. It has not yet submitted required reports to Congress or implemented essential AI governance policies.
• Funding and Training Needs:
  • No sufficient budget allocation for AI integration until at least FY 2026.
  • Efforts to provide AI training for staff are in early stages, with courses still under development.
• Collaboration Barriers:
  • The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (DNI) has delayed issuing necessary guidance and frameworks, impacting DOE’s ability to move forward.
  • DOE participates in multi-agency councils but awaits further coordination from the DNI.
• Positive Steps Taken:
  • Formation of a Data Science Working Group to identify use cases and guide AI adoption.
  • Initial efforts to develop AI-supported foreign intelligence analysis.

What’s Next

To accelerate progress, the report recommends:

1. Expedited Congressional Reporting: Submit a comprehensive report on AI efforts by February 2025.
2. Focus on Resources: Allocate adequate funding and human capital for AI integration.
3. Enhanced Training: Ensure all personnel are equipped with AI-related knowledge and skills.

Recommendations

• For Government Leaders: Prioritize interagency collaboration and expedite issuance of federal guidance to streamline AI adoption across intelligence activities. Seek ways to remove barriers to action including exemptions from burdensome regulations when possible.
• For Industry Partners: Develop and offer scalable AI solutions tailored to the unique challenges of intelligence operations.
• For Intelligence Professionals: Engage in continuous learning to address AI risks and harness its potential responsibly.

Read the full report: Progress Is Needed to Support the Department of Energy’s Integration of Artificial Intelligence IntoIntelligence Activities.