The Defense Logistics Agency is testing artificial intelligence and other emerging technologies to determine how they can address data interoperability challenges among agencies as part of its efforts to improve logistics operations in contested environments.
In partnership with the U.S. Transportation Command and the U.S. Army, a research and development initiative has begun to test the integration of legacy systems and new technologies such as blockchain networks, and their applications in various use cases, including data sharing capabilities and shipment tracking, DLA said Tuesday.
Senior leaders from TRANSCOM and DLA met at the McNamara Headquarters Complex on Thursday to discuss contested logistics environment, supply chain resiliency and data interoperability challenges.
During the meeting, DLA Director Army Lt. Gen. Mark Simerly highlighted the need for the agency to think, act and operate differently in response to the logistics challenges and the evolving needs and priorities of warfighters.
What Are the Benefits of Data Interoperability?
According to Simerly, the ability to make good decisions in using data will help resolve problems by enhancing relationships with customers, suppliers and whole-of-government partners and improving interaction with technological tools.
DLA Chief Information Officer Adarryl Roberts, who was also present at the meeting, called for the creation of data standards and a platform that can meet the cybersecurity needs of the federal government to ensure data exchanges are more secure and manageable.
TRANSCOM has supported the DLA network optimization initiative by maximizing its data-sharing capabilities using its Next Generation Delivery Service, or NGDS.
“The NGDS is reliable, fast and cost effective, but also increases warfighter readiness from competition through conflict,” said DLA Distribution Commander Navy Rear Adm. Michael York.