Artificial Intelligence and Autonomous Systems

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Artificial intelligence (AI) is the most prevalent topic across multiple strategic drivers for research and development within the Science and Technology Directorate (S&T). It has the potential to significantly impact the Department across many missions and to spawn new inventions and additional advances in numerous other domains.

As AI and autonomous systems (AS) become mainstream, it is critical that S&T understands the landscape, the evolution of the various aspects of the technology, and the supporting science as they affect the needs of the Department. 

Key areas of S&T’s AI research include computer vision for applications such as surveillance and screening systems and biometrics, and natural language processing for applications such as law enforcement and immigration services. Key use cases for AS include transportation (automotive, aerospace, maritime, and rail), utilities (water and wastewater, oil and gas, electric power, and telecommunications), and facility operations (security, energy management, environmental control, and safety).

S&T’s focus areas in AI and AS include:

1. Trustworthy AI/AS
   We aim to assess the performance of AI/AS for potential operational use to maintain the integrity of DHS missions and to ensure the appropriate systems are employed.
    
2. Adversarial AI
   Across all the layers in the communications and tech stacks (data, software, hardware, networks, and communications), we must guard against sophisticated adversaries employing AI attacks.
    
3. Advanced Applications of AI/AS for Unique DHS Missions
   We seek to advance AI/AS capabilities in various subfields (such as computer visioning, natural language processing, predictive modeling, etc.) to drive application of AI/AS across specific DHS missions and needs (e.g., biometric capabilities, media, and analytics, etc.).

Our investments today in AI research and development support our ability to meet immediate mission needs, while preparing the Department for the opportunities and challenges of tomorrow.