Air Force Boosts Supply Chain with AI Integration

The U.S. Air Force is tackling critical supply chain issues through an expanded partnership with SparkCognition Government Systems (SGS). This collaboration involves SGS deploying artificial intelligence technologies to address efficiency challenges that have arisen due to a significant decline in the Defense Logistics Agency's (DLA) supplier base in recent years.

This partnership aims to mitigate the challenges faced by the DLA, which has experienced a significant decrease in its supplier base over the past six years. From 2016 to 2022, the DLA lost approximately 3,000 vendors, representing a 22% decline. This reduction has resulted in supply delays and higher costs, exacerbated by difficulties in sharing essential information across the supply chain, such as lead times and parts availability.

Under the new contract, SGS will deploy AI-powered solutions in collaboration with Boeing to enhance the Air Force’s supply chain operations. The goal is to address vulnerabilities and improve overall  supply chain efficiency.

“Supply chain issues, such as extended lead times and information gaps, are impacting our military’s readiness,” said Art Sellers, SGS Interim President and General Manager. “By utilizing AI-driven solutions, we can provide actionable insights to help the Air Force identify and address these supply chain challenges, thereby supporting national security.”