Artificial Intelligence: Actions and Opportunities to Implement Responsible Use in DOD

U.S. adversaries are investing in artificial intelligence capabilities in ways that threaten global stability and U.S. national security. DOD issued an AI strategy in 2026—emphasizing speed in AI development. But DOD must do so responsibly to ensure quick and confident AI adoption on the battlefield.

This Q&A discusses how DOD has taken steps to implement AI responsibly, including through department-wide collaboration. But, as we previously reported, it hasn't defined responsibilities for AI collaboration or addressed workforce needs that affect AI adoption.

Our recommendations include that Congress consider directing DOD to do this and more.

Glowing computer chip in a circuit with brain icon.

Artificial intelligence (AI) is being used in a variety of scenarios, or use cases, in the Department of Defense (DOD). In guidance, DOD established AI Ethical Principles and the concept of Responsible AI to ensure the safety and trustworthiness of AI systems. DOD further defined six tenets to guide Responsible AI implementation. Most of the 10 DOD components GAO surveyed reported taking at least initial steps to establish oversight and implement Responsible AI tenets in the selected surveyed use cases.