Shield AI Co-Founder Advocates for Problem-Based Defense Acquisition Reform

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Shield AI President and Co-Founder Brandon Tseng calls for establishing a new problem-based acquisition system outside and distinct from the Joint Capabilities Integrations and Development System. Image: Open AI

Brandon Tseng, Co-founder and President of Shield AI, presented a compelling case for reforming the Department of Defense (DoD) acquisition process in his statement to the U.S. House Armed Services Committee. Tseng, a former Navy SEAL and engineer, emphasized shifting from a requirements-based to a problem-based acquisition system to foster innovation and maintain America’s military edge.

Tseng highlighted Shield AI’s achievements in developing AI-piloted aircraft and drones, including the MQ-35 V-BAT and autonomous F-16 flights. He argued that current DoD acquisition processes often result in incremental improvements (“faster horses”) rather than transformative solutions. The existing requirements-based system, Tseng contended, is slow, inflexible, and discourages innovation from defense contractors.

To address these issues, Tseng proposed establishing a new problem-based acquisition system separate from current processes. This system would focus on solving identified problems without specifying requirements, provide flexible budgeting based on value, and target 25% adoption of major acquisition efforts within three years. Tseng also recommended implementing pre-deployment training under electronic warfare conditions to assess the survivability of U.S. military systems.

Tseng’s testimony underscores the critical role of software and AI in future military capabilities, emphasizing the need for increased investment and a shift in DoD culture to recognize these technologies’ strategic importance. (Read the complete statement)

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Return to: Defense-Update Weekly News Summary 26.9.2024