U.S. can not afford to be second in AI to China, says Booz Allen Hamilton CEO Horacio Rozanski

In a CNBC interview, Booz Allen Hamilton CEO Horacio Rozanski emphasized the need for the U.S. to accelerate its advancements in artificial intelligence to keep pace with competitors like China, particularly in the context of national security. He highlighted the importance of collaboration with technology firms and the adaptation of commercial technologies for military applications, while also expressing concerns about the potential risks of hastily implementing new AI techniques.

In a recent CNBC interview, Horacio Rozanski, the CEO of Booz Allen Hamilton, discussed the company’s strong performance and the potential impacts of an upcoming administration transition on their business. Despite reporting double-digit growth in both revenue and profits, Rozanski acknowledged that there may be some near-term softness due to shifts in government priorities. He emphasized that while transitions often bring disruption, they also create opportunities, and Booz Allen has historically performed well after such changes.

Rozanski expressed concern about the pace at which the U.S. is advancing in technology, particularly in artificial intelligence (AI). He noted that while the country is making progress, it is not moving quickly enough to keep up with competitors like China. He highlighted the importance of speed in implementing new technologies and mentioned that initiatives like the Department of Defense’s efforts could serve as accelerators for innovation.

The conversation also touched on the relationship between Booz Allen and technology companies like Palantir, which has seen significant growth in its AI and data services. Rozanski explained that Booz Allen collaborates with these firms to leverage their technologies for national security applications. He emphasized the importance of adapting commercial technologies for use in challenging environments, such as military operations, where conditions differ significantly from typical commercial settings.

Rozanski further elaborated on Booz Allen’s recent partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS), which aims to co-create solutions that meet the needs of the government. He underscored the company’s role in bridging the gap between advanced technologies and their practical applications in national security, ensuring that these innovations can be effectively utilized in various operational contexts.

Finally, Rozanski addressed the geopolitical implications of AI, particularly in relation to China’s advancements. He stressed that the U.S. cannot afford to lag behind in AI development, as it poses significant risks to national security. While acknowledging the potential of new AI techniques, such as those developed by DeepMind, he cautioned against hastily applying these models in sensitive areas without fully understanding their safety and security implications. Overall, Rozanski’s insights highlight the critical need for the U.S. to accelerate its technological advancements to maintain a competitive edge.