As the landscape of risk evolves, the security efforts of the United States are leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence, satellite connections, and edge technology.
Rear Admiral Christopher Bartz, the CIO and associate commander for C4 and IT at the U.S. Coast Guard, expressed the organization’s interest in expanding the utilization of Starshield spacecraft. Over the last nine months, the Coast Guard has integrated Starshield capabilities into all its cutters, leading to significant operational enhancements.
For those interested in the latest defense technology initiatives, the Potomac Officers Club is hosting the 10th Annual Defense R&D Summit on January 31. This event offers a valuable opportunity to learn from key government decision-makers like Heidi Shyu and industry experts about the latest advancements shaping the defense landscape.
During a panel discussion at the 2023 Homeland Security Summit hosted by the Potomac Officers Club, Rear Admiral Christopher Bartz remarked, “That has definitely changed the game for us.” He emphasized the importance of establishing communication networks in remote operational environments to support the Coast Guard’s missions effectively.
Looking ahead, Bartz expressed his vision of outfitting all USCG assets with Starshield technology in the future.
The focus on edge technology, artificial intelligence, and system comprehension remains paramount for U.S. Customs and Border Protection. Sunil Madhugiri, the company’s chief technology officer, highlighted the emergence of conceptual AI as a game-changer, presenting new possibilities for homeland security missions. By harnessing business insights, CBP aims to identify and prioritize the most impactful and efficient AI applications.
Madhugiri is currently exploring two key AI use cases: record summarization, movie analysis, and image analysis, anticipating significant time savings for CBP officers and agents. Similar to the Coast Guard’s commitment to leveraging AI for maritime object detection, CBP recognizes the transformative potential of AI technologies.
In a landmark executive order, the White House has introduced guidelines for the ethical and responsible use of AI. Keith McCloskey, the chief technology officer for ECS’s Homeland Security and Justice division, emphasized that entrepreneurship will underpin all AI initiatives in the U.S., ensuring safe and effective deployment of AI technologies.
McCloskey underscored the importance of national standards in shaping the ethical deployment of AI technologies, emphasizing the federal government’s role in leading by example to safeguard the nation’s interests and values.
Transitioning from AI discussions, other homeland security-focused agencies like the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) are prioritizing data management. Kristin Ruiz, deputy assistant administrator and deputy CIO at TSA, highlighted the agency’s focus on modernization and development to enhance operational capabilities.
Ruiz emphasized the TSA’s commitment to establishing a robust foundation for leveraging information, enhancing open architecture, and integrating operational and IT systems to meet evolving needs effectively.
