Published 17:58 IST, January 28th 2025
U.S. Defense Department Plans Major Expansion of In-Theater Data Processing Capabilities
Launched in 2023, JOE enables commanders to analyze massive volumes of data from advanced sensors, uncrewed systems, and artificial intelligence (AI) tools.

Washington, D.C. — The U.S. Department of Defense (DOD) is preparing to significantly expand its Joint Operational Edge (JOE) program, a cutting-edge cloud initiative launched in 2023 to bolster data processing capabilities for military units operating globally. This effort aims to address the growing demand for computing power as combatant commands increasingly rely on advanced sensors, uncrewed systems, and artificial intelligence for real-time decision-making on the battlefield.
The JOE initiative provides military commanders with the ability to analyze and process massive volumes of data collected from sensors deployed across diverse environments. The program currently operates nodes in key strategic locations, including Japan, Hawaii, Guam, and various sites in Europe and Africa.
Rob Vietmeyer, the Pentagon’s Chief Software Officer, emphasized the program’s importance during the Potomac Officers Club’s annual Research and Development Summit in McLean, Virginia. “We’re collaborating with the intelligence community, Joint Staff, and combatant commands to integrate these capabilities with our commercial partners,” he said.

As part of the initiative’s expansion, the Pentagon plans to grow its network of JOE nodes from its current handful to approximately 20 over the next few years. This expansion will be guided by operational demand and focused on delivering tangible benefits to combatant commanders.
“We don’t want to overbuild infrastructure,” Vietmeyer noted. “This will remain an agile program that grows based on real value added to operations.”
Focus on AI and GPU Technologies
A critical component of the JOE program is ensuring commanders have access to the tools they need, particularly at “the edge” — a term describing forward-deployed environments. Early deployments of JOE have revealed a high demand for artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities and advanced graphics processing unit (GPU) tools, which are essential for processing complex visual and sensor data.

The Pentagon is also exploring policies and procurement strategies with commercial vendors to streamline the delivery of these technologies. While the program is currently funded as an enterprise-level initiative, it is expected to transition into a hybrid funding model that includes a fee-for-service approach.
Strengthening Supply Chain Security
As the JOE program scales up, the Pentagon is prioritizing supply chain security to mitigate risks associated with edge computing infrastructure. Leigh Method, who is performing the duties of Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Sustainment, highlighted the establishment of a Supply Chain Risk Mitigation Integration Center to address these concerns.
Currently in its infancy with a single employee, the centre is poised to grow over the coming years, enabling the DOD to identify and mitigate vulnerabilities in its supply chain. Additionally, the Vendor Threat Mitigation initiative will provide combatant commanders with insights into the companies they partner with for data processing tools, ensuring the department avoids inadvertently “contracting with the enemy.”
“We’re giving commanders the authorities and information they need to protect logistics capabilities,” Method said, underscoring the importance of securing the backbone of military operations.
Future of JOE in Global Military Strategy
With an eye on the future, the JOE program reflects the DOD’s commitment to integrating cutting-edge technologies into military operations. As adversaries continue to advance their capabilities, JOE offers a decisive advantage by enabling commanders to harness the power of data, AI, and edge computing in real-time.

As Vietmeyer concluded, “The vision is for JOE to remain flexible, scalable, and responsive to the dynamic needs of modern warfare.”
The expansion of the JOE program is poised to enhance the U.S. military’s global operational effectiveness, positioning it to maintain a strategic edge in increasingly complex and data-driven battlespaces.
Updated 17:58 IST, January 28th 2025