The Department of Defense has unveiled a significant overhaul of the Defense Technical Information Center (DTIC), aiming to enhance efficiency by drastically reducing its workforce.
This move is part of a broader strategy to modernize the department's operations and align them with contemporary technological advancements.
Emil Michael, the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, emphasized the necessity of optimizing the sharing and utilization of technical insights derived from U.S.-funded research and development endeavors.
In a memo released on Monday, Michael highlighted the limitations imposed by the DTIC's outdated infrastructure, which hampers its ability to keep pace with both allies and adversaries. "Its unfocused organizational model and legacy information platform are not suited to keep pace with global R&D, take advantage of Artificial Intelligence (AI), or integrate with other data and intelligence systems that support strategic deterrence-impacting R&D investment decisions by the Department of Defense," the memo stated.
As reported by The Washington Times, the Pentagon has mandated an "AI-first digital transformation of DTIC," although specifics remain undisclosed. Established in 1945, the DTIC serves as the Defense Department's primary repository for research and development information, housing a wealth of scientific and technical data from U.S. defense projects.
This repository is not only a critical resource for Pentagon researchers but also benefits contractors and academic institutions within the defense industrial base.
The restructuring plan, as outlined by Michael, will reduce the DTIC's workforce to 40 civilian positions and one Senior Executive Service member, marking a nearly 80% reduction from the 193 employees recorded in September 2024.
The Pentagon has appointed Silvana Rubino-Hallman as the acting administrator of DTIC, tasking her with overseeing the impending layoffs and conducting a "zero-based core mission review" of all contracting personnel. She is also authorized to issue stop-work orders if deemed necessary.
Chief Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell explained, "This decision eliminates duplicative functions and will refocus DTIC to its core statutory mission of administering a library of technical information and improving the user experience." The anticipated staff reductions are projected to save the Pentagon approximately $25 million annually.
These changes are part of the administration's ongoing efforts to streamline operations and reduce costs within the department. They mirror similar reductions implemented in May, when Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth downsized the Office of the Director, Operational Test and Evaluation from 94 to 30 civilian employees.
This conservative approach underscores a commitment to fiscal responsibility and operational efficiency, ensuring that taxpayer dollars are utilized effectively in safeguarding national security.
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