Defense
Special operators hope AI can reduce civilian deaths in combat
Automation could eventually turn “trigger-pullers into the experts that can do this,” one official said.
Policy
Both Harris and Trump are historically behind on presidential transition planning
GSA is beginning to provide office space and information technology support to the candidates, who have both just recently named the heads of their transition teams.
Artificial Intelligence
NSF launches AI-driven biotech research program
The National Science Foundation is funding five projects within its new BioFoundries program, which aims to use artificial intelligence to accelerate research in biosciences.
Acquisition
US intelligence agencies eye closer partnerships with private sector
The efforts include a new partnership-focused office, engagement goals for employees and efforts to make information more accessible, a top intelligence official said Tuesday.
Digital Government
SSI to move core disability program application online
The initial rollout will be available to adults who have never married and are applying for Supplemental Security Income for the first time.
Digital Government
AI can help FOIA offices combat onslaught of bot-powered requests, report says
According to a report from software firm OPEXUS, 93% of FOIA officers believe “AI has a key role to play in helping to review, sort and deduplicate requests.”
Defense
Army puts new unit loaded with cutting-edge tech to the test
The reconnaissance unit is the poster child for Army plans to field more drones, electronic warfare, and communications equipment across the force.
Digital Government
NIST releases new draft of digital identity proofing guidelines
Among the changes is a new identity proofing option that doesn’t use biometrics like facial recognition.
Acquisition
DOJ suit claims Georgia Tech ‘knowingly failed’ to meet cyber standards for DOD contracts
The Justice Department has joined onto a whistleblower lawsuit filed by two senior staffers on Georgia Tech’s cybersecurity compliance team that was filed in 2022.
People
Mike Gallagher talks priorities as Palantir’s new defense business chief
The former lawmaker is looking to draw on a decade of national security policy work in the new position.
Digital Government
ICE struggles to track unaccompanied minors, oversight report says
The agency lacks automated systems to chart the path of underage migrants through the immigration system.
Artificial Intelligence
Energy unveils green resource hub for AI-based grid demand
The new online resource is the latest step Energy has taken to match the pace of green energy transitions with growing electricity needs from artificial intelligence applications.
Policy
Watchdog urges OMB to prioritize implementation of anti-fraud recommendations
GAO updated the budget agency on the 172 recommendations that it has not completed.
Digital Government
VA should offer more support for Veterans Crisis Line personnel, watchdog says
VA’s Office of Inspector General found that the Veterans Crisis Line successfully prepared for the launch of the streamlined “988 then press 1” call option for those in crisis but strained supervisors’ ability to guide responders.
Cybersecurity
FBI is losing track of classified and sensitive data, watchdog finds
The bureau is failing to account for electronic storage media that are marked for destruction at secure facilities.
Modernization
What the next president should do to maintain global tech leadership
A report from MITRE recommends new oversight and continued external partnerships for the next presidential administration to strengthen U.S. science and technology leadership.
Cybersecurity
FAA proposes new cyber rules for airplanes and aviation equipment
The rules are designed to combat cybersecurity threats targeting aircraft, engines and networks aviation systems.
Ideas
China leans into using AI − even as the US leads in developing it
The Chinese government has made extensive use of existing AI technologies, including for surveillance.
Acquisition
Army unveils draft for $10B software development competition
The Army has doubled the maximum number of awardees from its prior intent and shed some more light on how the downselect could work.
Cybersecurity