The Pentagon will slash the Defense Technology Information Center’s workforce by nearly 80%, retaining only 40 employees deemed mission-essential, while integrating artificial intelligence systems.
The reduction-in-force, announced by Chief Pentagon Spokesman and Senior Advisor Sean Parnell, targets what officials call “duplicative functions.” The cuts promise taxpayers $25 million in savings per year while refocusing DTIC on its core statutory mission. The center will continue operating as a technical information library while improving user experience.
In a memo about the reduction in workforce, the Defense Undersecretary for Research and Engineering, Emil Michael, noted that the current “unfocused organizational model and legacy information platform are not suited to keep pace with global R&D, take advantage of Artificial Intelligence (AI), or integrate with other data and intelligence systems that support strategic deterrence-impacting R&D investment decisions by the Department of Defense.”
“Therefore, I direct the following rationalization and AI-first digital transformation of DTIC to better meet the Secretary’s priorities for the Department,” he added.
All civilian employees outside the 40 retained positions will receive reduction-in-force notices by August 25. The total number of affected workers remains unspecified.
Parnell framed the move as part of “the Department’s commitment to broader efficiency initiatives and to streamline operations.” He emphasized that the retained staff would fulfill DTIC’s statutory obligations.
DTIC serves as the Department of Defense’s central repository for scientific and technical information. The center provides research access to military personnel, defense contractors, and government agencies.