The Department of the Air Force’s chief information officer (CIO) is setting the stage for a new ecosystem that streamlines software convergence and data access across the service branch.
The Air Force CIO on Monday issued the initial version of a reference architecture and roadmap for an application programming interface (API) platform.
The API Reference Architecture outlines the technical framework that the Air Force aims take use to ensure resilience and interoperability across systems. It also details the approach the service branch will take in developing an enterprise API tool, according to the CIO’s office.
In particular, the API Reference Architecture explains the implementation of an API-first methodology, which is designed to enhance secure data access and facilitate sharing of software interfaces, the document states.
Rather than immediately replacing current solutions, the architecture envisions achieving a feature-complete end state that the Air Force plans to deliver first. After that, existing solutions will gradually converge into this unified framework.
Ultimately, this convergence will support all software development efforts and methods of data sharing throughout the Air Force.
“To enable seamless collaboration and coordination across the [Air Force], the Department of Defense, other Federal organizations, and our allies and partners, the intent of the future API solution is to provide convergence across a vast application ecosystem that spans technologies and organizations,” Air Force Chief Technology Officer Jay Bonci stated in the foreword of the document.
The roadmap outlines five phases the Air Force plans to undertake – between fiscal year (FY) 2024 to 2026 – to begin making progress in implementing this new ecosystem through a phased approach. The goal is to begin a phased implementation approach starting with policy and guidance in FY 2024. Beginning in FY 2025 and though 2026 the Air Force plans to increase its API-related capabilities.
“The Architecture marks the start of conversation between the [Air Force] and [the Pentagon] and industry mission partners towards implementing a modern API ecosystem,” according to the CIO’s office.
The CIO’s office is asking interested stakeholders to submit feedback on the documents by mid-August, which it plans to incorporate at the upcoming Department of the Air Force Information Technology and Cyberpower Event and into the second versions of the roadmap and reference architecture.
