Azure OpenAI now authorized as a service at DoD IL4 and IL5

DISA, the agency within the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) responsible for provisional authorization of commercial cloud products and services and developing and maintaining the DoD Cloud Computing Security Requirements Guide (SRG), is pleased to announce that Azure OpenAI has been authorized as a service within the DoD Impact Level 4 (IL4) and Impact Level 5 (IL5) provisional authorizations (PAs) for Azure Government. This authorization provides the ability to bring the most advanced AI capabilities to national defense and government agencies by approving service use in components. This most recent milestone is not about technology; it continues a standard of excellence at Microsoft that dates back to 2017, when DISA awarded Azure Government an IL5 PA, the first IL5 PA awarded to a hyperscale cloud provider.

Soldier using a computer. Photo credit: Army.mil

Realizing the Potential of AI in Defense Operations

Imagine a scenario where commanders in the field can use AI-based tools to analyze operational data in real time and respond with unparalleled speed and accuracy. Envision streamlined logistics operations with AI to ensure critical supplies reach the front lines faster and more efficiently. Imagine using GPT-4o, an innovative multimodal model, to enhance intelligence gathering and enable analysts to seamlessly integrate text, vision, and audio data for a more comprehensive situational awareness.

With Azure OpenAI, these scenarios are not just possibilities, they are realities. This upgrade is more than just a security enhancement. It means our military is ready to move ahead in an increasingly complex global environment.

Our Promise
Microsoft is committed to powering government transformation through AI, delivering mission-driven innovation, and ensuring the military is always ready and always ready.

Explore More
For more information about Azure OpenAI’s FedRAMP High Authorization and its implications for government operations, see our detailed blog post. Azure OpenAI FedRAMP High-Level for Government

Join us
We’d love to hear your thoughts and experiences on integrating Azure OpenAI into government operations. What are your expectations? What scenarios would you like to explore? Join the conversation by leaving a comment below. And don’t forget to subscribe to stay up to date on the latest developments and insights.

About the Author

Wes Anderson
Wes Anderson currently serves as Vice President of Microsoft’s Federal Defense team. In this role, he works with U.S. Department of Defense customers to ensure mission success through Microsoft’s cloud services and products. He has 40 years of extensive experience delivering customer success, building industry-leading companies, and driving transformational change.