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U.S. Army Seeks Industry Input on AI Bill of Materials Initiative
The U.S. Army is requesting industry input on a new initiative that would require companies to disclose the origins of their artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms. The initiative, known as the AI bill of materials (AI BOM), would require potential contractors to provide the Army with detailed information about their digital ingredients and supply chain, similar to the software bill of materials (SBOM) practices advocated by the National Telecommunications and Information Administration and the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency.
The AI BOM initiative is seen as critical by Army officials, who are investing in AI, machine learning, and autonomy to meet the demand for faster decision-making, remote intelligence gathering, and reduced human risk on the modern battlefield. The Chief Digital and AI Office of the Defense Department has emphasized the importance of high-quality data in these pursuits.
The goal of the AI BOM is to enhance cybersecurity and consistency, rather than harm companies or compromise sensitive intellectual property. By reducing the attack surface from an algorithmic standpoint, the Army aims to improve its overall security posture. The government’s intention is not to obtain or reverse engineer companies’ IP, but rather to ensure the integrity and safety of AI systems used in military operations.
The Army has already begun engaging with industry stakeholders to gather feedback on potential requirements for the AI BOM. The initiative aligns with the broader efforts to secure the supply chain, encompassing not only physical components but also software, data, and AI.
According to the Government Accountability Office, there are currently over 685 AI-related projects in progress at the Pentagon, with at least 232 of them being handled by the Army. The AI BOM initiative is expected to contribute to the government’s broader strategic objectives in AI adoption and cybersecurity.
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