DVIDS – News – Making science at JMC operational with artificial intelligence and machine learning

In recent years, the U.S. military has become increasingly vocal about the strategic importance of artificial intelligence and machine learning in modern military operations. Senior officials emphasize that AI and ML will be critical enablers of future warfare, transforming everything from decision-making processes to the way combat troops operate on the ground.

Recently Dr. Mark Tschopp of the Army Research Lab a three-day AI and ML course at JMC headquarters. More than 30 U.S. Army Soldiers and civilians from many Rock Island Arsenal organizations attended the course, the third and final course in the September 2024 JMC training series entitled “Data Analytics Booster Month.”

“To align with the Department of Defense and the U.S. Army, JMC is making significant strides to train staff in data, analytics, AI and ML in support of National Defense and the Joint Warfighter,” said Tanner Schuldt, HR specialist.

The first course in the series, Power BI, was mainly about data and analytics and how you can use visualization to tell the story of the data. The second course, Data Foundations, provided foundational knowledge to understand the data.

The goal of this third course was to provide Army Soldiers and civilians with an understanding of the fundamental concepts and mathematical principles behind AI and ML. There were four objectives for the course: understand core concepts, master the math, explore key algorithms, and arouse curiosity.

“AI and ML are not just buzzwords; they are powerful tools that are revolutionizing the way we approach complex problems,” said Tschopp. “It is essential that our soldiers and civilians understand not only the ‘what’, but also the ‘how’ and ‘how’. why’ behind these algorithms. By demystifying these technologies, we empower our soldiers and civilians to leverage data-driven insights and ultimately make more informed decisions, improving our operational capabilities.”

So, what is artificial intelligence?
AI develops machines to perform functions that normally require human intelligence, especially learning (acquiring knowledge) and reasoning (using knowledge to solve problems). AI-based machines can be classified into four general categories: narrow, limited, broad, and general.

And what is machine learning?
ML is a subset of AI that allows computers to learn directly from examples, data, and experiences without being explicitly programmed. In the non-ML subset of AI, humans typically encode their knowledge into a model. ML algorithms build mathematical models from training data that are then used on input data in an operational environment to provide output for a given task.

The Ministry of Defense has been investing in artificial intelligence and the responsible use of data and AI systems for more than sixty years. Today, data, analytics and AI technologies are increasingly available to DoD Components and provide value to our service members.

“Artificial intelligence and machine learning will soon become critical technologies in ensuring JMC can execute missions in a contested environment with precision and speed,” said Steve Taylor, JMC Deputy Chief of Staff for Information Management. “AI and ML will be critical force multipliers that can augment existing human capabilities in areas such as safety, quality assurance and business analytics, and will be essential to the success of JMC and the Army’s leadership in leveraging data-driven decision making.”

National Defense just reported that the Army’s ongoing efforts to accelerate the safe adoption of artificial intelligence have completed an initial 100-day sprint and paved the way for the next goal: a 500-day plan to operationalize it.

In fact, earlier this year the Army invested $50 million in small and non-traditional companies to develop a variety of artificial intelligence and machine learning solutions.

The Army’s vision for AI and ML is clear: these technologies are integral to the future of warfare. While challenges remain, including ethical considerations and the need for robust human oversight, Army officials are confident that AI and ML will dramatically enhance the Army’s capabilities in the coming years. Through continued innovation, strategic investments and collaboration with partners, the Army seeks to ensure it remains prepared for the rapidly evolving nature of conflict in the 21st century.

“Learning about machine learning and AI has been a game-changer. It’s like having a superpower, being able to understand large amounts of data and make predictions. I can’t wait to apply what I’ve learned to help the Army make better decisions and improve our operations,” said Gina Ward, Chief of the Munitions Logistics Division. “As technology continues to evolve and shape the future of warfare, the strategic imperative for the military to understand and leverage ML and AI will only become more important. maintaining a competitive advantage and ensuring mission success.”

Brig. Gen. Ronnie Anderson Jr., the JMC commander, recognized Dr. Tschopp for sharing his AI and ML knowledge with the staff at RIA and JMC. Anderson also shared a real Army experience using AI and ML on the battlefield after presenting the award. “We are now using AI and ML to make immediate targeting decisions,” he said. “Where it used to take minutes to determine a target, we can now identify a threat in an environment and determine whether it is an enemy or not in seconds. The image bank is so deep now and we have changed the targeting order and decision-making process.”

Want to try out the US military’s AI? Sign up for a CamoGPT account. CamoGPT delivers generative AI to every soldier, DA civilian and contractor through a chat-based, GPT-compatible productivity application. CamoGPT is designed to be flexible and model independent, allowing it to adapt to a wide range of tasks and integrations. This versatility ensures that it remains an indispensable tool for your productivity needs. CamoGPT works with robust security features. It is deployed in a closed domain, keeping your data, clues and answers safe within the military’s security boundaries. CamoGPT is hosted on NIPR, SIPR, cloud and edge environments, making it an ideal solution for a variety of use cases. Some examples of CamoGPT’s capabilities include writing an award, summarizing or editing a paper, or preparing a report. To create an account, go to CamoGPT Account Creation (apps.mil).

Photo provided by: Artificial Intelligence (defense.gov)