The Pentagon is readying to release a new cyber strategy in the coming weeks that will outline a path for industry to provide solutions needed for future artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and operational tools, the DoD’s principal deputy chief information officer (CIO) said Tuesday.

Thomas Michelli, DoD’s acting principal deputy CIO for Cyber Security, told attendees at a CXO Tech Forum that new strategies for cyber operations, cyber security and artificial intelligence to build on the most recent National Defense Strategy will be released in a matter of weeks.

Thomas Michelli, acting principal deputy CIO for cybersecurity, at CXO Tech Forum. Photo: Matthew Beinart.
Thomas Michelli, acting principal deputy CIO for cybersecurity, at CXO Tech Forum. Photo: Matthew Beinart.

The new strategies will be mutually supportive and describe private sector partnership opportunities and future budgeting concerns, according to Michelli.

Senior DoD officials have also developed a classified list of top ten cyber priorities that Michelli described as needing new solutions.

“Whether you’re in government or industry, we’re looking to you to help us achieve these outcomes,” Michelli said.

A new AI strategy will follow the cyber strategies, as DoD Secretary Jim Mattis continues to look towards Silicon Valley to find solutions with potential Pentagon applications.

“What’s happening in the cyber realm today is happening so fast, we have to have a way to respond in milliseconds. Also across the spectrum of warfare, artificial intelligence will help us provide lethality,” Michelli said. “We are about ready to announce an artificial intelligence strategy. We’re setting up several capabilities within the department, and many of the department already have an individual person that’s focused on artificial intelligence.”