Pentagon Moves CDAO to Research and Engineering in Pursuit of AI-First Strategy
The Defense Department realigned its Chief Digital and AI Office to report to the Under Secretary for Research and Engineering. This move supports faster AI innovation from labs to deployment.
The Defense Department has realigned its Chief Digital and Artificial Intelligence Office (CDAO) to report directly to the Under Secretary for Research and Engineering (USD(R&E)). This strategic move supports the Pentagon’s commitment to an “AI-first” approach, aiming to accelerate AI innovation from research labs to operational deployment.
A defense official explained that placing the CDAO under USD(R&E) creates a unified innovation hub capable of advancing AI capabilities swiftly and effectively for national defense.
Since its establishment in 2021 through merging several digital and AI-focused entities, the CDAO has led key initiatives like the Tradewind Solution Marketplace and the Pentagon’s Data, Analytics, and AI Adoption Strategy. While the precise changes to the CDAO’s internal structure remain unclear, officials assure that all statutory duties will continue uninterrupted during this transition.
Related Stories
- DOD CDAO and DIU Sign Agreement to Accelerate AI Adoption
- Former DOD CDAO Radha Plumb Joins IBM to Lead ‘AI‑First’ Transformation
- DoD to Evaluate CDAO’s Adoption of AI
- DOD CDAO Partners with AI Firms to Tackle National Security Risks
Upcoming Event
September 10, 2025
Chicago - Leadership Summit
In Person Chicago Leadership Summit
Crowne Plaza Chicago West Loop
Register Now
