Top 10 Quantum Events for Government in 2026 

Quantum computing is an operational reality that is rapidly reshaping national security, cryptography and mission-critical data processing across the Public Sector. As adversaries accelerate their own quantum cryptography standards and explore quantum networking architectures, Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, is proud to support Government stakeholders at the forefront of this transformation. Together with our network of leading quantum technology partners, Carahsoft is committed to connecting Government agencies with the expertise, solutions and community they need to navigate the quantum landscape with confidence. Below, we highlight the top quantum events of 2026 and how Carahsoft is helping drive the mission forward. 

Convening to Act: Accelerating U.S. Post-Quantum Cryptography Adoption 

March 17, 2026 | Hyattsville, MD | In-Person Event 

Join the National Cryptologic Foundation for an event centered on Quantum-Resistant Cryptography (QRC) adoption where toady’s cyber leaders unite to accelerate the nation’s transition to post-quantum security. This high-impact forum brings together experts from Government, industry and academia to explore best practices for cryptography inventory and modernization, learn how leading organizations are transitioning to QRC standards and experience live demonstrations showcasing advanced migration tools and techniques. Through strategic dialogue and real-world insights, attendees gain clarity and momentum needed to act on emerging standards and mandates. 

Carahsoft will have a tabletop presence at Convening to Act. Carahsoft partners in attendance include: SafelogicSandboxAQQanapiISARAEntrust and QuSecure. Carahsoft’s involvement in this event supports published national security priorities by empowering commercial, defense and Intelligence Community (IC) participants to understand and operationalize newly released Federal guidance on Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) deployment. Our team will be present to help organizations strengthen their future-proofing strategies and contribute to securing the nation’s digital infrastructure. 

ATARC Quantum Speaker Series: Accelerating Quantum Innovation Through Standardization 

March 24, 2026 | 1:30-2:30pm ET | Virtual Event 

Join the Advanced Technology Academic Research Center (ATARC) for a high-impact session in its Quantum Speaker Series. This focused 30-minute webinar highlights the work of the Advancing Standardization for Critical and Emerging Technologies (ASCET) Center of Excellence, an initiative dedicated to strengthening U.S. leadership in international quantum standards. Attendees will gain insight into how ASCET is broadening participation in quantum standardization, cultivating the next generation of quantum experts and supporting U.S. Private Sector priorities through training, tools and strategic initiatives. 

Carahsoft recommends attending this webinar from the ATARC Quantum Speaker Series, reinforcing our dedication to advancing U.S. quantum competitiveness. The webinar format provides a platform that enables quantum experts to share their experiences and insights with a broad Government audience, making PQC knowledge accessible to agencies regardless of their location or resources. 

Golden Dome: Quantum Proofing America’s Shield 

April 23, 2026 | 3:00-5:00pm ET | Virtual Event 

The “Golden Dome” for America has moved from vision to reality, creating a massive, interconnected architecture of space-based sensors, kinetic interceptors and Command and Control (C2) networks. However, this “system of systems” is only as strong as the data paths that connect it. As adversaries accelerate their quantum computing capabilities, the encryption protecting on-orbit capabilities, satellite links, ground-based systems and decision-support chains faces an existential threat. 

Quantum-Proofing the Golden Dome is a practical, mission-focused deep dive into hardening the nation’s shield. The architects of the initiative will come together with the builders of the technology to define a clear path for quantum-resilient security in the next 12–24 months. 

Sessions to Look Out For: 

  • The Golden Dome Architecture: Security at Every Segment – A high-level view of the interoperability requirements across the Golden Dome segments. Bob Gourley, CTO at OODA LLC, will outline why the single attack surface of missile defense, space and C2 demands quantum-resilient security. From radar feeds to firmware signing, the specific data paths that are most at risk today will be identified. 

Carahsoft is proud to host Golden Dome: Quantum Proofing America’s Shield at the Carahsoft Conference & Collaboration Center in Reston, VA, bringing together the architects and builders of the nation’s most critical missile defense initiative to chart a clear path toward quantum-resilient security. We are excited to provide a platform for experts in the quantum community to share their critical, real-world insights with Government leaders, defense professionals and technology innovators. 

Quantum Tech World 

June 25-26, 2026 | Boston, MA | In-Person Event  

Step into the future at Quantum Tech World 2026, the premier global summit where quantum computing, artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC) converge to redefine what is possible. This event unites more than 1,000 innovators, industry leaders, policymakers and researchers from 40+ countries to explore the breakthroughs shaping the next era of technology. Attendees will have the chance to listen to expert speakers, participate in trainings and earn certifications that will provide the insights, tools and connections needed to drive quantum adoption at enterprise scale. 

Sessions to Look Out For:  

  • Aerospace & Defense: Mission-Critical Quantum Innovation – Quantum technologies are revolutionizing the mission landscape for aerospace and defense, unlocking capabilities in sensing, navigation and secure communications. This panel gathers global leaders from Government, research and industry to discuss how quantum breakthroughs are enhancing resilience, accelerating innovation and securing critical infrastructure in an increasingly complex world. 

Many of Carahsoft’s leading quantum technology partners will be in attendance—including IBMQuintessenceLabs and ClassIQ—offering attendees direct access to cutting-edge solutions and expertise spanning PQC, quantum networking and quantum sensing. As Carahsoft deepens its engagement with the quantum ecosystem, this event represents a valuable opportunity for Government stakeholders to connect with our partner community and explore solutions best suited to their agency’s mission needs.  

2026 Quantum Computing User Forum 

July 20-24, 2026 | Oak Ridge, TN | In-Person Event 

Get ready to join the global community at the 2026 Quantum Computing User Forum, taking place at Oak Ridge National Laboratory, one of the nation’s premier centers for advanced computing and scientific innovation. The Forum will feature interactive sessions, allowing attendees to explore emerging best practices in quantum application development, software frameworks and simulation techniques. Designed for both current users of the Quantum Computing User Program (QCUP) and the broader research ecosystem, this event offers the opportunity to connect directly with the scientists, developers and technologists shaping the future of quantum computing devices and systems.  

Carahsoft’s expanding quantum portfolio includes a number of partners focused specifically on quantum computing hardware, software and integration, making this an ideal environment for agencies to explore the breadth of available solutions. This forum aligns with our commitment to linking Government agencies with the solutions they need to prepare for the quantum era.  

DoDIIS 

August 9-12, 2026 | Tampa, FL | In-Person Event 

The Department of Defense Intelligence Information System (DoDIIS) is the premier intelligence and defense technology forum hosted by the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), convening quantum scientists, engineers and innovators dedicated to shaping how quantum will secure, empower and transform the U.S. defense ecosystem. This year’s theme, “DIA Next: Intelligence Technologies for Battlespace Lethality,” places groundbreaking quantum capabilities at the center of national defense modernization. As intelligence technologies increasingly rely on quantum-inspired algorithms, advanced sensing, secure communications and next-generation computational architectures, DODIIS 2026 offers the opportunity for quantum leaders to engage directly with the mission owners shaping the future of global security. 

Carahsoft is proud to host an expansive partner pavilion at DoDIIS 2026, reinforcing our commitment to connecting Government customers with meaningful connections and a deeper understanding of the solutions available to support their mission. Attendees are encouraged to visit our pavilion, which will feature interactive demo kiosks, exhibitor booths and speaking opportunities, providing access to our broad ecosystem of quantum and intelligence-focused technology partners.  

TechNet Augusta 

August 17-20, 2026 | Augusta, GA | In-Person Event 

TechNet Augusta 2026 is at the center of the nation’s cyber operations dialogue. This principal Armed Forces Communications and Electronics Association (AFCEA) event, developed with assistance from the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence (CCoE), brings together military leaders, Government decision makers and industry innovators to explore the evolving challenges and advances shaping the cyber domain. Across four days of mission-focused programming, attendees will dive deep into the technologies, strategies and operational imperatives driving modern cyber electromagnetic activities and unified land operations. Designed to open the lines of communication between defense stakeholders and the commercial sector, TechNet Augusta provides the opportunity to connect and collaborate with leaders and operators at every level as they chart the future of U.S. cyber superiority. 

Carahsoft is proud to support the Government and defense community at TechNet Augusta, hosting demo kiosks where attendees can explore our partners’ quantum and cybersecurity solutions. Carahsoft’s involvement reflects our ongoing dedication to ensuring Government customers have direct access to the expertise and solutions needed to advance their mission-critical technology strategies. 

Quantum World Congress 

September 22-24, 2026 | College Park, MD | In-Person Event 

Quantum World Congress (QWC) is the gathering where leaders across science, industry, Government, finance and education are shaping the future of quantum technology. Since 2022, QWC has served as an international platform for unveiling innovations, accelerating commercialization and forging the partnerships that move quantum from the lab into the real world. Attendees will explore advancements in communications, computing, sensing, materials, security and cross-sector applications. With the National Quantum Initiative Act (NQIA) Reauthorization signaling long-term Federal momentum, QWC delivers the insights, strategy and connections organizations need to lead in the era of quantum advantage. 

Carahsoft is exploring opportunities to expand our presence for QWC 2026 as we continue to deepen our engagement with the quantum community and expand the resources available to our Government customers and vendor partners. Carahsoft’s growing quantum portfolio spans a broad range of mission-aligned solutions, and the QWC represents an ideal opportunity for attendees to engage directly with tools best suited to their needs. 

TechNet Indo-Pacific 

October 27-29, 2026 | Honolulu, HI | In-Person Event 

AFCEA International and AFCEA Hawaii have re-named their signature event TechNet Indo-Pacific. As the largest strategic defense and technology event in the Indo-Pacific Rim, the conference brings together U.S. and allied military leaders, Government technologists, researchers and industry experts to address the region’s most pressing challenges. For quantum professionals, this is an incredible opportunity to explore quantum-enhanced sensing for maritime and space domain awareness, PQC for resilient communications, secure distributed computing at the tactical edge and hybrid quantum-classical tools for intelligence fusion. With exhibitor showcases, mission-focused technical sessions and direct access to decision makers responsible for shaping regional defense strategy, the event provides a powerful platform to influence the future of secure, high-performance capabilities across the Indo-Pacific. 

Carahsoft will have a tabletop presence at TechNet Indo-Pacific, continuing our engagement with military and Government leaders at one of the most strategically important cybersecurity and technology events in the Pacific region. Attendees will have the opportunity to connect with our team and explore our partners’ exhibits, which will feature hands-on demonstrations and mission-aligned solutions designed to meet the specific requirements of military and defense agencies operating in the region. 

Super Computing 2026   

November 15-20, 2026 | Chicago, IL | In-Person Event 

Join the global leaders of HPC, networking, storage and advance analytics at Super Computing 2026 (SC26), an annual gathering that will define the next generation of computational innovation. Attendees can immerse themselves in a technical program built to accelerate discovery, featuring groundbreaking research in architectures, algorithms, machine learning at scale, distributed systems, visualization, data analytics and emerging technologies. The expansive exhibit floor will feature major industry innovators, national laboratories, universities and startups showcasing advanced systems, tools and solutions driving the fastest supercomputers and tomorrow’s exascale-to-quantum workflows. Whether shaping compute-intensive science, engineering extreme-scale systems or advancing quantum-ready architecture, SC26 provides unmatched opportunities to learn, collaborate and lead within the global HPC ecosystem. 

Carahsoft will be an exhibitor at the SC26, showcasing the latest advancements in quantum computing and HPC solutions from our technology partners, including D-WaveQuantinuum and IBM. Attendees are encouraged to visit Carahsoft’s exhibit to engage with our quantum-focused partner community, gain hands-on experience and learn how quantum computing technologies are transforming operations and driving breakthroughs across scientific and Public Sector missions. 

The quantum era presents both extraordinary opportunities and significant challenges for Government agencies committed to maintaining strategic advantage and protecting sensitive data. The events highlighted above represent the most critical forums for policy dialogue, technical education and cross-sector collaboration as the Public Sector works to operationalize quantum-ready solutions. Whether your agency is just beginning to assess its quantum posture or actively implementing PQC standards, Carahsoft and our trusted partner ecosystem are here to support every stage of that journey. 

To learn more or get involved with any of the above events, please contact us at QuantumComputing@carahsoft.com 

For more information on Carahsoft and our industry-leading quantum technology partners’ solutions, visit our quantum solutions portfolio. 

Top 10 DoW Events for Government in 2026 

As the Department of War (DoW) navigates an increasingly complex threat landscape, staying at the forefront of technological innovation and strategic collaboration is mission critical. In 2026, DoW stakeholders will have several opportunities to engage with senior military leaders, explore defense technologies and strengthen partnerships across the defense and Intelligence Communities (ICs). Carahsoft Technology Corp., The Trusted Government IT Solutions Provider®, has deep expertise supporting the DoW through our extensive portfolio of cybersecurity, cloud, artificial intelligence (AI) and mission-focused solutions. Below are the top DoW events where Carahsoft and our partners will be advancing defense innovation and operational readiness. 

Sea-Air-Space 

April 19-22, 2026 | National Harbor, MD | In-Person Event 

Sea-Air-Space 2026 is the premier global maritime exposition hosted by the Navy League of the United States at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center in National Harbor, Maryland. It brings together senior military leaders, Government officials, defense industry executives and technology innovators to explore the latest advancements in maritime and naval security, operations and technology. The event features extensive exhibit halls, keynote speakers, expert panels, networking opportunities and discussions on integrated approaches to maritime defense and emerging threats.  

Sessions to look out for: 

  • Multi-Domain Integration and Naval Expansion in the Space Age 
  • From Concept to Capability: Aligning Autonomy Across our Maritime Forces 
  • Sea Power and National Defense: Naval and Coast Guard Readiness 

Throughout the three-day exhibit, Carahsoft is dedicated to supporting maritime and naval professionals with 48 live vendor demonstrations showcasing real-world use cases and defense solutions. Our team of defense technology experts will be on-site to provide personalized consultations, answer questions about procurement pathways and connect you with solutions that address your specific operational requirements. Stop by to explore how our partners’ innovations can enhance mission readiness across the sea services. 

Modern Day Marine 

April 28-30, 2026 | Washington, DC | In-Person Event 

Modern Day Marine 2026 is the largest military equipment, systems, services and technology exposition uniquely focused on supporting the U.S. Marine Corps, taking place at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. It brings together Marines, DoW leaders, industry partners and authorized Government representatives to explore warfighting innovations, interactive exhibits and demonstrations. The event features more than 350 exhibitors, expert briefings, live technology showcases and specialized activities like the OBJ1 Wargaming Convention and themed zones highlighting emerging capabilities.  

Sessions to look out for: 

  • Logistics Command Artificial Intelligence Symposium 
  • Ground Systems Enterprise Senior Leader Symposium 

Carahsoft is proud to support the Marine Corps community at Modern Day Marine 2026 with engaging live demonstrations of mission-critical technologies designed to enhance warfighting capabilities. Our team will provide Marines and DoW leaders with expert guidance on innovative solutions in AI, cybersecurity, logistics automation and battlefield communications. Visit our space to experience firsthand how these technologies can strengthen operational effectiveness and connect with our specialists who understand the unique challenges facing the Marine Corps today. 

GEOINT Symposium 

May 3-6, 2026 | Aurora, CO | In-Person Event 

The Geospatial Intelligence (GEOINT) Symposium 2026 is the nation’s largest gathering of GEOINT professionals, organized by the U.S. Geospatial Intelligence Foundation (USGIF) at the Gaylord Rockies Resort & Convention Center in Aurora, Colorado. It brings together Government, military, industry and academic leaders to explore how GEOINT technologies and partnerships are shaping national security, defense and global decision-making. The event features main-stage sessions, panel discussions, an expansive exhibit hall, networking receptions and opportunities to engage with emerging innovations across land, sea, air, cyberspace and space domains. GEOINT Symposium serves as a key forum for collaboration, professional development and advancing the role of GEOINT in addressing complex geopolitical and security challenges. 

Carahsoft is committed to advancing GEOINT capabilities for the defense and intelligence communities at GEOINT Symposium 2026. Our live demonstrations will highlight cutting-edge solutions in geospatial analytics, AI-powered intelligence platforms and secure data integration designed specifically for GEOINT professionals. Connect with our team of specialists who bring deep expertise in supporting Government geospatial missions and can provide tailored guidance on implementing technologies that enhance decision-making across all operational domains. 

SOF Week 

May 18-21, 2026 | Tampa, FL | In-Person Event 

Special Operations Forces (SOF) Week 2026 is the premier annual international conference and exposition for the SOF community in Tampa, Florida. Jointly sponsored by U.S. Special Operations Command (USSOCOM) and the Global SOF Foundation, it brings together special operators, defense industry leaders, Government officials and global partners to connect, share insights and advance capabilities relevant to modern special operations missions. The event features keynote sessions, professional development panels, extensive exhibition halls, live demonstrations and networking opportunities that foster collaboration.  

Carahsoft is honored to support the Special Operations Forces community at SOF Week 2026 through our partner pavilion showcasing innovative, mission-ready solutions tailored to the unique requirements of SOF operations. Our presence provides special operators and defense professionals with direct access to advanced technologies in secure communications, tactical AI applications, cyber capabilities and specialized equipment. Our dedicated SOF solutions team will be available throughout the event to provide consultations, demonstrate how these technologies perform in challenging operational environments and discuss procurement pathways that support rapid capability delivery to warfighters. 

TechNet Cyber 

June 2-4, 2026 | Baltimore, MD | In-Person Event 

TechNet Cyber 2026 is a flagship three-day cyber defense conference and exposition hosted by AFCEA International at the Baltimore Convention Center. It brings together U.S. Government and military cyber professionals, industry leaders and academic experts to address pressing cybersecurity challenges, emerging threats, policy, operations and technology integration in the contested cyberspace domain. The event features keynote addresses, panel discussions and an extensive exhibit hall where participants can explore innovative solutions and tools designed to strengthen secure, resilient cyber operations across defense and national security missions.  

Carahsoft is dedicated to supporting military and Government cyber professionals at TechNet Cyber 2026 through our partner pavilion featuring innovative cyber defense solutions addressing the most pressing threats facing DoW networks. Our cybersecurity specialists will provide personalized consultations on Zero Trust Architecture, AI-powered threat detection, secure cloud operations and compliance frameworks essential to defending critical information systems. Visit our pavilion to explore technologies proven in Government environments, engage with experts who understand DoW cybersecurity requirements and discover resources that can strengthen your organization’s cyber resilience. 

TechNet Augusta 

August 17-20, 2026 | Augusta, GA | In-Person Event 

TechNet Augusta 2026 is a regional defense and cybersecurity conference and expo hosted by AFCEA International in Augusta, Georgia. It brings together military, Government and industry professionals, especially those involved with Army cyber operations and unified land operations, to share insights, collaborate on cyber electromagnetic activities and discuss emerging challenges in the cyber domain. The event features educational sessions, networking opportunities and exhibits aimed at fostering communication, problem solving and innovation between the military and the commercial sector. 

Carahsoft is committed to supporting Army cyber operations and unified land operations professionals at TechNet Augusta 2026. Our booth will feature live demonstrations of cyber and IT solutions specifically designed to address the challenges of cyber electromagnetic activities and defensive cyber operations. Connect with our team of Army-focused technology specialists who can provide expert guidance on implementing solutions that enhance tactical network security, improve cyber situational awareness and accelerate digital transformation initiatives across Army installations and mission systems. 

TechNet Indo-Pacific 

October 27-29, 2026 | Honolulu, HI | In-Person Event 

TechNet Indo-Pacific 2026 is a major strategic defense conference and exposition in Honolulu, Hawaii, co-sponsored by AFCEA International and AFCEA Hawaii. It is the largest event of its kind in the Indo-Pacific Rim, bringing together military, Government, industry and academic leaders to address evolving regional security challenges, defense policy and operational readiness specific to the Indo-Pacific theater. The symposium features keynote speakers, panel discussions, professional sessions and an expansive exhibit hall where organizations showcase technologies and solutions to support secure, resilient communications and multi-domain capabilities.  

Carahsoft is dedicated to supporting defense and Government professionals addressing Indo-Pacific security challenges at TechNet Indo-Pacific 2026. Our booth will serve as a resource hub featuring vendor collateral, expert consultation and technology resources tailored to the unique operational requirements of the Indo-Pacific theater. Our regional specialists understand the specific communications, cybersecurity and multi-domain integration needs facing military and Government leaders in this critical area of operations and will be available to discuss solutions that enhance interoperability, strengthen partnerships and support strategic readiness across the region. 

Alamo Cybersecurity Exposition (ACE) 

December 7-10, 2026 | San Antonio, TX | In-Person Event 

ACE 2026 is the annual conference and exposition hosted by the Alamo Chapter of AFCEA at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa. It draws military, Government and defense industry professionals together to discuss cybersecurity, Information Technology (IT) and multi-domain operations, featuring expert panels, keynote speakers, acquisition updates and an expanded cybersecurity expo. The event also includes professional development opportunities, networking and events supporting charitable causes like golf tournaments benefiting military families.  

Carahsoft is committed to supporting defense IT and cybersecurity professionals at Alamo ACE 2026. Our booth will provide attendees with access to expert consultations, educational resources and technology demonstrations addressing critical challenges in enterprise IT resilience, secure software delivery and multi-domain operations. Our team brings extensive experience supporting defense acquisition programs and can provide guidance on procurement strategies, contract vehicles and solution implementation tailored to your organization’s specific mission requirements and security objectives. 

DoDIIS Worldwide Conference 

August 9-12, 2026 | Tampa, FL | In-Person Event 

The Department of Defense Intelligence Information System (DoDIIS) Worldwide Conference 2026 is the Defense Intelligence Agency’s (DIA) premier information technology and intelligence systems event, bringing together senior decision makers, technical experts and stakeholders from the DoW, the IC, industry, academia and allied partners to collaborate on mission-critical technology solutions. It serves as a forum to share insights on data integration, IT modernization, secure information systems and innovations that support intelligence and warfighter missions. The immersive in-person conference features distinguished speakers, expert panels, networking opportunities and showcases of technical solutions designed to enhance decision-making and operational effectiveness. DoDIIS plays a key role in fostering partnerships and advancing capabilities across the defense and intelligence ecosystems. 

Carahsoft is honored to support the defense and intelligence communities at DoDIIS 2026 through our dynamic partner pavilion featuring cutting-edge technologies designed to advance mission success across the DoW and IC. Our team of intelligence solutions specialists will be available to provide personalized consultations on data integration platforms, IT modernization strategies, secure information sharing capabilities and analytics tools essential to supporting intelligence and warfighter missions. Visit our pavilion to explore proven solutions, engage in meaningful discussions about your organization’s technology challenges and connect with resources that can enhance decision-making, operational effectiveness and mission outcomes across the defense and intelligence ecosystems. Check out the agenda here.

Billington CyberSecurity Summit

September 8-10, 2026 | Washington, DC | In-Person Tradeshow

The Billington CyberSecurity Summit 2026 is the 17th annual gathering of Government and industry cyber leaders, serving as a premier forum for Federal, State and Local cybersecurity professionals to discuss critical threats, policy developments and defense strategies. This three-day summit brings together thousands of attendees and hundreds of expert speakers across more than 40 sessions and breakout discussions to explore topics like AI integration in cybersecurity, Zero Trust architecture, threat intelligence, operational resilience and emerging defense capabilities. The event offers extensive networking opportunities, solution showcases and deep-dive sessions that address the most pressing cybersecurity challenges facing the Public Sector. Sessions have not yet been released for 2026, but previous years have covered topics ranging from AI-driven threat detection to securing critical infrastructure and implementing proactive cyber defense strategies.

Carahsoft is committed to supporting DoW and Federal cybersecurity professionals at the Billington Cybersecurity Summit 2026 with a comprehensive resource presence featuring educational materials, expert consultations and technology demonstrations. Our cybersecurity specialists will be available throughout the three-day event to provide guidance on implementing Zero Trust frameworks, securing defense networks, addressing compliance requirements and exploring innovative solutions to combat evolving cyber threats. Visit our space to access resources tailored to DoW cybersecurity challenges, connect with solutions providers who understand defense mission requirements and engage in discussions about strengthening your organization’s cyber resilience and operational readiness. Check out the agenda here.

From maritime operations and SOF to cyber defense and GEOINT, these 2026 events provide essential opportunities for DoW stakeholders to explore innovative solutions, connect with industry leaders and strengthen partnerships across the defense ecosystem. Each gathering addresses the most pressing challenges facing the DoW, offering hands-on demonstrations, expert insights and valuable discussions that drive operational readiness and mission success. Carahsoft is proud to support these critical initiatives through our presence at each event and our extensive portfolio of defense-focused partners and solutions. 

To learn more or get involved in any of the above events, please contact us at DoWMarketing@Carahsoft.com. 

For more information on Carahsoft and our industry-leading DoW technology partners’ events, visit our DoW Solutions Portfolio. 

The Evolution of Technology in the Defense Industry at DoDIIS

Innovation in Government benefits the changing and growing needs of the nation, and the Department of Defense (DoD) leads the way in both innovation and security. The Department of Defense Intelligence Information System (DoDIIS) is a conference for the nation’s top military and technology specialists to share insights revolving around the show’s theme – ‘Chaos to Clarity: Leveraging Emerging Technologies.’ Fed Gov Today joined Carahsoft on the show floor to discuss IT and OT updates, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) and priority technology updates with military thought leaders.

Departmental Shift to Information Technology

Carahsoft DoDIIS Defense Recap Blog 2023 Embedded Image 2024The DoD aims to refresh technology and standardize user experience across the department as a response to employee feedback. These standards are partially inspired by Zero Trust models and codifying existing standards. Through the implementation of office management and hiring defense digital service experts, agencies will update hardware and endpoints, refresh outdated technology and enhance overall IT capabilities. Executing these standards will require time and financial resources, and to properly utilize all acquired resources, a new generation of industry professionals will need to be onboarded. By building off effective processes from previous initiatives and hiring new talent that is optimally suited for these processes, the department can make strides in software such as cloud computing, generative AI and Zero Trust. The introduction of the Joint Operational Edge Cloud (JOEC) is also critical in accelerating cloud computing for combat tactical edge usage during the interim shifts in technology. At record speeds, the DoD must move from hardware defined enterprise towards modifying software.

AI Evolution

While AI is in its infancy, prototypes show a promising and interesting future where machines are trained to complete work. With more than 1,200 AI applications across civilian agencies, and various similarities and differences in the way AI is used by Government and commercial agencies, there is a lot the Federal sphere can learn from commercial agencies. In the private sector, companies tend to build back-end architecture for AI, providing fast access to all data. The Federal Government can optimize this plan by automating AI/ML to gain tactical advantage against machine adversaries. AI can also aid in predicting component failure. This helps agencies get hardware and software back on track as soon as possible, as well as help with mission planning. The private sector offers a myriad of ideas the Government can leverage for efficiency, such as AI in healthcare, sustainable energy and creative component and finance management.

DIA Initiatives

The Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), a service provider on behalf of the defense industry, has a comprehensive IT strategy made up of five key priorities:

  1. Among both classified and unclassified networks, the DoD should implement top secret connection.
  2. With the transition to working from home, employers must enable workplace inclusivity through technology, especially for employees with disabilities.
  3. Enable workers to access data applications from one fully integrated place by consolidating network systems, such as desktop environments.
  4. As internally shared information becomes more complex, the DIA must update technology to strengthen intelligence sharing.
  5. Authorize worldwide connectivity for the Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications System (JWICS), the DoD’s house for sensitive information. This means a reliable and secure connection regardless of environment and its proximity to data centers.

By maintaining pace with world class technology such as the cloud and AI, the DoD will lead the nation in secure communication and strategies.

Check our more resources, interviews and highlights from the event floor at DoDIIS at FedGovToday.com.

DoDIIS Takeaways: Future DoD and IC Initiatives for AI, ML and the Cloud

This blog series focuses on the Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) initiatives for 2023 and beyond. Part one covered future plans regarding IT workforce development and retention, partnerships, interoperability and data management. Part Two continues the discussion of the intertwining initiatives and technologies in AI, ML and cloud computing to provide a more complete picture of the current DoD and IC landscape in connection with their vision for the future.

While data is the lifeblood for the digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) are what make digesting the information possible. Cloud allows for this data to be hyperscaled, more agile and more efficient for operations. All of these elements and technologies work together to propel the DoD and IC to the next level and achieve mission goals.

Carahsoft DoDIIS AI ML and Cloud Part 2 Blog Embedded Image 2023AI and ML

To properly understand AI and ML’s role in the future of the DoD and IC, some standard definitions must be established. While the private sector mostly utilizes AI for emergency response, healthcare, finance, agriculture and human resources, the military’s most common uses include cyber defense, swarming, vulnerability scanning and data filtration. This creates a stark difference in understanding and terms. For the purposes of this blog, the terms AI and ML will reflect the terms used during the live DoDIIS speeches and discussions.

With AI and ML, one of the biggest hurdles for the IC is explainability. Before new data can be incorporated from other sources, existing data must be processed. CTOs and Directors of the CIA, DIA, National Media Exploitation Center (NMEC) and Virtualitics explained that if current data holdings are not sorted and understood during the data cataloging processes, it will be difficult to utilize AI and understand the results later. Data governance and data strategy are foundational to this effort. All parties involved also need to understand the ethical implications of AI and have a strong grasp of data analysis and machine learning to harness all of these technologies’ true powers. Other safeguards must be put in place to properly introduce the use of AI and ML within their intended contexts. AI testing and evaluation (T&E) is different than for other tech, since AI capabilities should not be set and left without monitoring and a way to update a model in the field. Instead, the models should continue to be supervised over time by system creators and end users across academia, industry and government to preserve accuracy and high precision. The baseline within the hierarchy of needs is ensuring quality data results, which requires clear understanding of the algorithmic approaches being employed for the models. Vendor technology that provides clear AI explainability is particularly sought after in the DoD and IC since it can be used to back tactical life or death decisions. One solution the DoD is pursuing to address this challenge is the machine-as-a-teammate (MaaT) capability which automates data transformation to significantly increase velocity and precision while remaining explainable.

The DoD has begun focusing heavily on ethical AI frameworks including starting toolkits to assess pipeline or model bias and building a Responsible AI (RAI) foundation to ensure responsible, equitable, traceable, reliable and governed use of data. The DoD hopes industry will continue to adopt RAI principles ahead of future requirements and expand on practical ways to attain these best practices. In addition, the DoD established an AI Council to discuss aligning their RAI framework with AI regulations in other European countries as they seek to integrate systems and open the door for efficient data sharing.

Through initializing use of AI and ML, the DoD and IC have already discovered several benefits. AI has offered enhanced workflows and reduced burden on analysts, advanced filtering techniques on large data sets, open-source scanning for improved product reports and optimized data rates for information transfer. DoD ML pilots achieved 100x increase in quality review and 10x increase in pre-decision error/anomaly detection, among other successes. DoD and IC leaders look to AI as gateway to better identify vulnerabilities in military systems, improve the identification of targets or locations and increase accuracy and speed of retrieving battle damage assessments. While the technology exists to perform these tasks, the policies and permissions are not yet complete to fully implement AI and ML.

Handling the massive quantities of data is a huge undertaking; however, processing the information through AI and ML has proven the worth of the endeavor tenfold and delivered clear mission impact. By focusing on the infrastructure first, the DoD and IC can leverage AI and ML for maximum impact to let machines and humans each do what they do best and then team up to solve the problems in between.

While there are some risks to implementing AI completely such as data set accuracy, vulnerabilities to adversarial influence, legal ramifications and expectations of data use tech, DoD and IC officials confidently endorse the transition to incorporating more AI. They recommend several key steps such as creating a common international policy that addresses ethical concerns, technological advancement and dual use; defining AI for policy given the dynamic and changing nature of technology; and identifying definitions and strategies around non-lethal options, hardening systems and mission enhancement. The DIA’s AI strategy aims to achieve AI readiness in the near term, AI competitiveness in the mid-term and AI dominance in the long-term.

The Cloud

According to Dr. Raj G. Iyer, former CIO for Information Technology Reform, Office of the Secretary of the Army, cloud is an absolute necessity to move large amounts of data across the globe. The concept of data-centricity shifting within the Army from theory to doctrine, has precipitated other essential changes including the migration to cloud. Dr. Iyer stated that the new data goals are no longer owned by just “tech folks”, but by every warfighter, which places a new level of priority on technology like cloud. The new Army initiative includes achieving a distributed command and control (C2) structure for the Army to provide more mobility and less centralization both with C2 and the data. This will be attained through the adoption of its Hybrid Cloud of the Future to hide data “in plain sight” and avoid systems that are uniquely military in nature. When the military leverages a commercial platform, it can process data in a way where adversaries cannot differentiate sensitive information from other commercial processes.

Across the rest of the DoD and IC, agencies vary in their level of cloud migration. For the NGA, business applications and analytics are already in the cloud, the next step is to move to a hybrid multicloud with resources that need to be on hardware available at Joint Regional Edge Nodes. The NSA hopes to avoid a lift-and-shift approach, and instead be precise with their cloud investments through initiatives such as Hybrid Cloud Compute, Eagle Crossing, and a Human Capital Management System. DISA has brought cloud programs together for the DoD under their Host and Compute Center (HACC) through the Joint Warfighting Cloud Capability (JWCC) contract.

For agencies which have not migrated, the DoD and IC recommend preparing for cloud deployment and utilizing this time before switching to cloud to eliminate bad practices that exist on-prem and focus on relevance, resourcing and complete system readiness. As other technologies and strategies take effect, DoD and IC officials reminded of the importance of prioritizing cloud first, cloud native and Zero Trust baked in throughout every aspect regardless of cloud migration stage.

Some challenges DoD and IC officials presented to industry were how to maintain service if an outage occurs in regional data centers from a classified perspective and how to maintain and optimize the network from a unified comm perspective considering its sensitivity to latency. Overall, leaders inquired how to preserve reliability and redundancy to overcome potential distrust of the cloud. As the DoD and IC collaborate with industry to innovate and resolve these issues, it continues to unlock new doors of potential. Dr. Iyer stated that the network is no longer an enabling function, and these digital technologies are now changing how the DoD and IC fundamentally view warfighting.

As the DoD and IC seek to accomplish these IT goals and prepare the way for future modernization, industry, academia and other government agencies must come together to solve current challenges, innovate new solutions and support mission initiatives. Government leaders noted the importance of these modernization efforts and that the technologies and strategies developed in the next 5-10 years will be the foundation of operations for the next generation.

 

Check out our Fast Facts and Future Initiatives of the DoD and IC Resource for more information and key insights for the IT industry.

*The information contained in this blog has been written based off the thought-leadership discussions presented by speakers at DoDIIS 2022.*

DoDIIS Takeaways: IT Workforce, Partnerships, Interoperability and Data Management

As the defense and intelligence communities reflect on 2022 and plan for the future, several key takeaways will guide upcoming initiatives. At the Department of Defense Intelligence Information System (DoDIIS) Worldwide, a conference sponsored by the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), attendees from the military, industry, government and academia gathered to collaborate and share insights on accomplishing the Department of Defense’s mission.

Agency leaders highlighted that every aspect of the Department of Defense (DoD) and Intelligence Community (IC) is critically enabled by IT. Not only is IT the first-in and last-out function for every crisis, oftentimes IT is the mission, not just a supporting role. The DIA recognizes that to innovate with current technology and invest in emerging tech, the journey to maximum productivity often includes the critical evaluation of processes and programs. With IT, misuses must be corrected, software needs to be transparent to users and technology simplified to promote a seamless integration. In essence, IT should be viewed as an evolution instead of a revolution.

To accomplish these goals, the DIA laid out its five main areas of prioritization for the coming years:

  • IT workforce retention
  • JWICS modernization, resilience and autonomy
  • DoDIIS modernization
  • International connectivity and partnerships
  • Capability delivery pipeline with Zero Trust and data management

The first part of this two-part blog series covers the discussions of DoD and IC challenges in relation to IT workforce development and retention, partnerships and interoperability and data management. The second blog will cover the enabling technology being deployed including artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML) and the cloud.

Carahsoft DoDIIS Recap Blog Embedded Image 2023IT Workforce Development and Retention

The DoD and IC have encountered challenges upskilling the workforce and uncovering new talent. To fill the gap in applicants, the DIA and IC have turned to contract hires and those from industry who want to spend only a few years in government. The DIA also offers an Education With Industry (EWI) Program where DIA employees can get joint duty credit while working with an industry partner. In addition, the DIA and National Geospatial Intelligence Agency (NGA) have developed recruiting programs for high schoolers and partnerships with local universities to offer high school internships in hopes of encouraging students to develop interest in a government career.

High competition for talent has increased the need for retention incentives and additional education so agencies can maintain the current workforce. To address these concerns, the DoD and IC have begun modernizing their HR systems and seek to automate HR processes and provide self-service capabilities in hopes of expediting the talent acquisition timeline. Another endeavor includes modernizing training platforms for current employees to keep their skillsets up to date. Investing in continuing-education for these agency subject matter experts is important since they play an essential role in advising commanders and building tech options to address threats. Leadership is looking to academia and industry to source individuals with understanding of the current DoD and IC challenges and the global crises. By pulling from these outlets, the DoD and IC can expedite the process rather than having to train from the ground up with high school recruits. To successfully integrate industry workers into the government sphere, the DoD and IC must adapt to make commercial approaches work as well.

Partnerships and Interoperability

In the realm of defense and intelligence, partnerships and interoperability of technology are key to achieving results that maximize each agencies’ unique capabilities and pool combined strengths. By engaging with other agencies and countries, commanders have access to additional information and options. Investing in these resources offer some resolutions to the DoD’s current challenge of how to rapidly develop new warfighting capabilities while also simultaneously addressing current threats.

These partnerships can make a difference through data sharing, which offers new knowledge to commanders for more informed decision making. To make this information and technology sharing a reality, systems and processes must ensure cross-domain security and allow for interoperability throughout data sourcing countries and agencies. Partnering more significantly with Five Eyes countries (FVEY), will be a major source of increased intelligence as the DIA shifts towards integrating systems. In the near future, any DIA cybersecurity programs that do not align and add value to the FVEY countries will be either adapted or removed.

DoD and IC leaders also hope to collaborate with allies such as the Five Eyes to establish baseline international policies that will open doors for easier parity of information and comparability of systems and technology. Without a universal frame of reference, definitions, and laws, practical progress and innovation is impeded.

Connecting with industry has proven to be another valuable resource as DoD and IC leaders are seeking to better understand the full capabilities of current and emerging technology and gain insight into how industry can solve mission challenges. The DoD and IC desire to foster a culture that values systematic, strategic and equitable private sector engagement as well as addresses barriers to those relationships.

Involving the community through continued conversations and strong alliances provides an integrated deterrent and an advantage over the adversary. While these partnerships have taken a back seat in the past, DoD and IC leaders believe that this needs to be a crucial change and take priority.

Data Management

One of the main cruxes for the DoD and IC is harnessing the power of data. Since everything begins with data, the DoD and IC recognize the responsibility to think and act strategically from data collection to exploitation, dissemination and disposal, and seek to improve current data handling methods. Dr. Stacey A. Dixon, Principal Deputy Director of National Intelligence, believes that developing strategies in the IC to accelerate delivery of that data to those that need it, is the greatest challenge of our time for defense and the IC. Currently the DoD has crossed the limit of data input, overwhelming existing data strategies and making data too siloed, too slow and too hard to find to successfully stay ahead of threats. As the volume of data increases, several measures must be put in place to leverage the wealth of information.

According to DoD and IC officials, the one thing industry and government agencies alike can collectively improve, is interoperability; however, unless data source countries’ systems are secure and the data can be worked together, this cannot be accomplished. Because a large, diverse set of data is needed for good ethics and proper execution, the DoD and IC look to gain increased ability to integrate data across classification levels. Maintaining Zero Trust and consistent monitoring is also critical to freeing the data from other sources.

Over the coming years, the DoD and IC seek to implement widespread data tagging as a foundation for effective data management and quality results. This will allow the combining of commercial and government data to merge with the context and experience that the DoD and IC possess to achieve well rounded, sound decisions.

The Office of the Director of National Intelligence (ODNI) released its IC Data Strategy 2023-2025, which outlines its plans for improving the management and use of data. The strategy aims to leverage data to operate, collaborate and communicate at any time, in any place and in any security domain at speed, scale and securely. To achieve this transformation, the strategy focuses on four areas: performing end-to-end data management, delivering data interoperability and analytics at speed and scale, seeking advanced partnerships for continued digital and data innovation, and transforming the IC into a data-driven enterprise. Finally, it outlines a modular and agile framework that integrates business, functional, technical, security and data standards to provide a blueprint for the use of data in the IC.

Dr. Raj G. Iyer, former CIO for Information Technology Reform, Office of the Secretary of the Army, stated that data will be the new ammunition. At the end of the day, it comes down to enabling optionality for commanders, enabling mission command and enabling a common operating picture. Dr. Iyer emphasized that this is not a technology strategy, but a digital transformation to change operating models and leverage data in ways that U.S. competitors have not.

Utilizing artificial intelligence, machine learning and the cloud will empower these goals. Read part two of this series to find out more.

 

Check out our Fast Facts and Future Initiatives of the DoD and IC Resource for more information and key insights for the IT industry.

*The information contained in this blog has been written based off the thought-leadership discussions presented by speakers at DoDIIS 2022.*