We last spoke to Davidson Technologies’ James Parys at our sister publication ExecutiveBiz about a year ago and the conversation centered around Combined Joint All-Domain Command and Control. Though Parys has transitioned to a new company since then, his faith in the capabilities of advanced technologies and how they can enable Department of Defense missions is still very much intact. We discovered this when catching up with Parys for his latest Executive Spotlight interview.
Parys is a Navy veteran and alumnus of Northrop Grumman, Cubic and Parsons with deep expertise in communications systems, aerospace and defense. He has big ideas for how an agile small business like Davidson can make an impact if enabled by emerging tech like AI and quantum. We dug into what it is, exactly, about small businesses that can make them better equipped to strengthen national security and the multifaceted roles the aforementioned technologies play.
GovCon Wire: What are the challenges of the current national security threat landscape as you see it and how does algorithmic warfare / EW play into it?
James Parys: The national security threat landscape today is incredibly complex and constantly evolving, thanks to rapid technological advancements and shifting geopolitical dynamics. One of the biggest challenges we’re facing is the rise of sophisticated cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure and defense systems. These threats aren’t just coming from state-sponsored actors; non-state actors are also leveraging advanced technologies to disrupt national security.
Algorithmic warfare and electronic warfare are crucial in tackling these challenges. At Davidson Technologies, we’re focused on integrating advanced algorithmic solutions to boost our national defense. Algorithmic warfare uses artificial intelligence and machine learning to process huge amounts of data, spot patterns and make real-time decisions. This is vital for countering cyber threats, optimizing command and control systems, and improving situational awareness on the battlefield.
EW, on the other hand, involves using the electromagnetic spectrum to detect, disrupt and deceive enemy communications and radar systems. By combining EW with algorithmic warfare, we can create adaptive and resilient defense mechanisms that respond dynamically to threats. For example, our advanced modeling and simulation techniques allow us to simulate complex scenarios and develop effective countermeasures.
Additionally, Davidson Technologies supports EW thought partnerships and develops software that optimizes friendly assets by processing massive quantities of information. This helps us position these assets in the best possible locations for various missions, from weapons targeting to bridging tactical information, ensuring interoperability across different systems.
In short, integrating algorithmic warfare and EW is essential for maintaining operational superiority in today’s threat landscape.
GCW: How can AI and quantum computing assist this fight?
Parys: AI and quantum computing are game-changing technologies that can significantly boost our national security efforts. At Davidson Technologies, we understand the critical role these technologies play in addressing the complex challenges of today’s threat landscape.
AI is fantastic at processing and analyzing vast amounts of data, which is essential for improving decision-making and operational efficiency. By leveraging AI, we can develop advanced algorithms that optimize the deployment of friendly assets, ensuring they’re positioned in the best possible locations for various missions. This includes everything from weapons targeting to bridging tactical information, ensuring interoperability across different systems. AI’s ability to identify patterns and predict potential threats in real-time is crucial for maintaining situational awareness and responding swiftly to emerging threats.
Quantum computing, on the other hand, offers unprecedented computational power that can revolutionize various aspects of national security. Quantum computers can solve complex problems much faster than classical computers, enabling us to tackle challenges that were previously unsolvable. For instance, quantum computing can enhance cryptographic techniques, making communications more secure and resistant to cyber-attacks. Additionally, quantum algorithms can improve the accuracy and speed of simulations, allowing us to develop more effective countermeasures against enemy systems.
At Davidson Technologies, we are hands-on with quantum computing, leveraging a cloud-based D-Wave 5,000 qubit annealing processor to drive optimization solutions for multiple, emergent customers. This tangible approach demonstrates our commitment to integrating cutting-edge quantum technology into our operations.
By integrating AI and quantum computing, we can create a synergistic effect that amplifies our defense capabilities. AI can help process and interpret the massive amounts of data generated by quantum computers, while quantum computing provides the computational power needed to run sophisticated AI models. This combination enables us to develop adaptive and resilient defense mechanisms that can dynamically respond to evolving threats.
In summary, AI and quantum computing are pivotal in enhancing our national security. At Davidson Technologies, we’re committed to leveraging these technologies to deliver mission-critical solutions that ensure the security and resilience of our defense systems.
GCW: What attributes do small businesses have that make them uniquely qualified to help solve some of these problems?
Parys: Small businesses have several unique attributes that make them exceptionally well-suited to tackle the challenges of today’s national security threat landscape. One of their key strengths is agility and flexibility. Unlike larger organizations, small businesses can quickly adapt to changing circumstances and rapidly implement innovative solutions. This agility is crucial in the fast-evolving field of national security, where timely responses to emerging threats are essential.
Another significant attribute is the strong culture of innovation that often characterizes small businesses. These companies are typically driven by a passion for cutting-edge technology and creative problem-solving. This innovative spirit enables small businesses to develop and deploy advanced technologies, such as AI and quantum computing, which are critical for enhancing national security.
The Pentagon is increasingly emphasizing a more agile, innovative environment. A case in point is the recent directive from the secretary of defense, “Directing Modern Software Acquisition to Maximize Lethality.” This directive mandates the adoption of the Software Acquisition Pathway—or SWP—across all DoD components to expedite software development and delivery. The SWP emphasizes rapid prototyping and deployment, aligning with modern software development practices. Davidson Technologies’ expertise in agile software and prototyping, along with our deep experience in Small Business Innovation Research programs and other transaction authorities positions us to deliver real warfighter capability efficiently and effectively.
Small businesses also tend to have a closer connection to their communities and a deep understanding of local needs and challenges. This local insight can be invaluable in developing tailored solutions that address specific security concerns. Additionally, small businesses often foster strong partnerships and collaborations with other organizations, including academic institutions and government agencies. These partnerships can lead to the development of comprehensive and effective solutions that leverage the strengths of multiple stakeholders.
Moreover, small businesses benefit from vehicle types like SBIR programs and OTAs. These vehicles allow customers to engage with small businesses more quickly and efficiently, bypassing some of the bureaucratic hurdles associated with traditional contracting methods. This enables small businesses to deliver innovative solutions faster, addressing urgent national security needs more effectively.
In summary, the agility, innovation, community connection, and efficient contracting mechanisms of small businesses make them uniquely qualified to contribute to solving the complex problems of national security. Their ability to quickly adapt, innovate and collaborate positions them as vital players in enhancing our national defense.
GCW: Why does speed matter in this fight?
Parys: Yes, it’s all about the ‘kill web’: He who can operate in a tighter OODA Loop than his adversary wins the fight. Speed is critical in the fight against national security threats, especially when discussing quantum computing and AI at the tactical edge. Here’s why:
- Rapid response to emerging threats: Quantum computing and AI enables the rapid analysis of vast amounts of data at the tactical edge, allowing for the swift identification and neutralization of threats. This quick response is crucial in dynamic combat environments where every second counts.
- Operational efficiency: AI algorithms can optimize the deployment of resources and personnel in real-time, ensuring that tactical units are positioned effectively. Quantum computing can solve complex logistical problems faster than classical computers, enhancing overall operational efficiency.
- Technological advancements: At the tactical edge, the speed of quantum computing allows for real-time decryption and encryption of communications, ensuring secure and instantaneous information exchange. AI can process sensor data on-the-fly, providing immediate insights and actionable intelligence.
- Situational awareness: AI-driven systems at the tactical edge can continuously monitor the environment, detecting and analyzing threats in real-time. Quantum computing can enhance the accuracy and speed of simulations, allowing for better preparation and response to evolving situations.
- Competitive edge: Leveraging the speed of AI and quantum computing at the tactical edge provides a significant advantage over adversaries. These technologies enable faster decision-making and more effective actions, ensuring that our forces can operate within a tighter OODA Loop than our adversaries.
In summary, the integration of quantum computing and AI at the tactical edge enhances national security by enabling rapid response, operational efficiency, technological advancements, situational awareness and maintaining a competitive edge.
