The Department of Defense Redefines Its Expectations for Software Efficiency.

When Congress reconvenes, the National Defense Authorization Act for 2026 (NDAA) will move toward a vote that will define the priorities of the Secretary of Defense and his allies regarding military technology investments. A noteworthy aspect of this legislation is the intention to implement a lower obligation to demonstrate the effectiveness and value of money invested in artificial intelligence (AI).

The current bill includes a reduction in data disclosures that allow the Department of Defense to understand the actual costs of purchases and assess the technical feasibility of contractors’ promises. This approach aligns with a broader effort by the Secretary of Defense to maximize lethality through the agile acquisition of modern software for combatants.

The Senate Armed Services Committee has expressed interest in modernizing the Pentagon’s acquisition and budgeting operations, seeking to improve efficiency and drive innovation. The 2026 NDAA stipulates that the Secretary of Defense must prioritize alternative acquisition mechanisms, which could accelerate the development and production of technology. This includes creating a “software acquisition pathway” designed to streamline the buying process for new technologies or updates within a year from the start of the process.

However, these agility measures raise significant concerns. The bill suggests that new technology will not be subjected to traditional oversight mechanisms, which could prioritize speed over due diligence. In an environment where companies often exaggerate or mislead about their product capabilities, it is essential for the government—having the largest budget—to take the necessary time to assess the effectiveness and cost-benefit ratio of these innovations.

Rapid decision-making in the acquisition of military technology, without thorough analysis, can lead to the implementation of tools that do not meet expectations, thereby compromising both operational effectiveness and public trust. In this context, it is crucial for the military and its supporters to reconsider the logic behind cutting corners in the purchase and deployment of new technologies. The current stance of the Department of Defense raises questions about whether the future tech-focused military will be equipped effectively, efficiently, and transparently.