MCO 5231.4

Page 1: Introduction & Overview of Marine Corps Order 5231.4

• Subject: Marine Corps Data and Artificial Intelligence (AI)

• Date: 11 Mar 2024

• Commandant of the Marine Corps and Distribution List: The order is issued from the Commandant of the Marine Corps to all relevant distribution lists aimed at modernizing the Marine Corps' operational capabilities through data and AI integration.

• Situation Statement:

  • Data is critical for operational success, enabling the Marine Corps to react swiftly in various scenarios.

  • Focus on modernizing information technology infrastructure for global data access and improved data sharing capabilities.

  • Emphasis on the responsible use of AI as a force multiplier, enhancing decision-making through data analytics.

  • Integration of AI must adhere to ethical principles and risk management practices.

• Service Data Office (SDO):

  • Established as the lead entity for overseeing data and AI policies.

  • Responsible for governance across warfighting functions, focusing on data-centric transformation and the implementation of the DoD Data Strategy.

Page 2: Governance Structures

• Governance Bodies Involved:

  • Functional Data Working Group (FDWG) oversees data governance.

  • Artificial Intelligence Working Group (AIWG) oversees AI governance.

• Roles:

  • Marine Corps Service Data Officer (MC SDO) chairs both groups and aligns data management policies with operational requirements.

  • FDWG provides recommendations on policy and resources; AIWG focuses on ethical AI principles.

• Additional Roles Defined:

  • Associate Data Officers (ADOs) manage implementation of data policies.

  • Data Stewards shape data direction and ensure quality and access.

  • Data Custodians handle practical data management tasks.

  • Command Data and Analytics Officers (CDAOs) facilitate domain-specific decision-making tools.

Page 3: Workforce Development and Talent Requirements

• Importance of Workforce:

  • A data-centric, AI-enabled workforce is deemed essential for national security and operational efficiency.

  • The Order outlines gaps needing to be addressed in skills and capabilities for effective data and AI application.

• Responsibilities of the Data Workforce:

  • Support resilient and secure data architecture and ensure compliance with risk management protocols.

  • Maintain a focus on ensuring data is Visible, Accessible, Understandable, Linked, Trustworthy, Interoperable, and Secure (VAULTIS).

  • Establish required competencies for AI talent to support combat and non-combat operations,

  • Identify gaps in training to foster the necessary skills across both technical and non-technical areas.

Page 4: Mission Statements & Concepts

• Mission: Develop advanced data and AI solutions to enhance decision-making and operational effectiveness.

• Commander's Intent: Equip and train the Marine Corps Total Force to utilize data and AI capabilities effectively.

• Operational Execution:

  • The SDO is tasked with leading data and AI implementation across the service, utilizing recommendations from FDWG and AIWG.

  • Annual Data and AI Implementation Plans will be published to ensure alignment with emerging technologies and operational needs.

Page 5: Subordinate Elements and Coordination

• Subordinate Roles:

  • DC I oversees the MC SDO, managing data, AI, and geospatial data initiatives.

  • MC SDO acts as principal advisor on data and AI, coordinating across departments and maintaining compliance with protocols.

  • Various departmental leads (DC M&RA, DC P&R, etc.) are assigned specific stewardship roles in data management, ensuring alignment with overall governance.

Page 6: Data and AI Integration across Duties

• Focus on integrating data and AI capabilities throughout various functional areas, emphasizing wargaming and readiness evaluations.

• Departments are tasked with identifying and addressing data-related requirements to enhance service capability across missions.

Page 7: Planning and Collaboration Strategies

• Cross-functional Coordination: Ensuring data systems' design and procurement are efficient and responsive to emerging needs, adopting flexible frameworks for acquisitions.

• Establishing key performance parameters for AI systems, ensuring alignment with responsible AI principles.

Page 8: Human Capital Development

• Focus on talent management for data science and AI.

• Emphasis on recruitment, training, and retention strategies to cultivate expertise in data analytics and AI.

• Aligning with existing Marine Corps structures for efficient management of personnel transitions.

Page 9-10: Specific Stewardship Assignments

• Each command and office has defined responsibilities in data management and AI policy enforcement to support their respective domains.

• Roles range from operational support to strategic oversight, ensuring comprehensive integration of data governance across the Marine Corps.

Page 11-12: Record Management and Privacy Considerations

• Importance of maintaining records in alignment with NARA standards, ensuring data privacy and compliance with the Privacy Act.

• Ongoing updates and recommendations for improving data governance processes are encouraged to adapt to new challenges.

Page 13-20: References and Definitions

• Extensive list of references (DoD strategies, internal orders, ethical AI principles) supporting the order.

• Glossary of terms and definitions provided to clarify roles, responsibilities, and technological concepts integral to implementing the guidelines outlined.