Washington, March 27 – The Pentagon is pushing to overhaul its information technology systems. Officials say outdated networks and cyber risks could hinder military readiness.
Chief Information Officer Kirsten Davies outlined the plan at a House hearing. She said the department is pursuing a "bold transformation" to turn technology into a "decisive advantage in warfare."
"Our focus is to achieve data supremacy and decision superiority," she said.
Lawmakers emphasized the importance of strong networks. "If the networks don't function well, nothing else will," said committee chair Don Bacon.
Davies outlined four main priorities.
First, the Pentagon plans to modernize its network infrastructure. This includes cables, satellites, and 5G systems. She said 5G is already deployed at most US military installations.
Second, the department will replace outdated systems. Davies said legacy IT remains a major problem. "Legacy IT does pose a significant challenge," she said.
She said many old systems are not updated, making them harder to secure.
Lawmakers agreed. Some described federal systems as slow and outdated. They said this hinders efficiency and security.
Third, the Pentagon will strengthen cybersecurity. Davies said the department is moving away from "checklist-driven compliance."
Instead, it will use a risk-based model. This includes automation and continuous monitoring. The department is also expanding "zero trust" security.
Davies said cyber risks extend beyond Pentagon networks. She warned about threats to contractors and supply chains. The department must look "much more holistically" at security across the defense industrial base.
Fourth, the Pentagon will focus on its workforce. Davies said it is expanding recruitment and training for cyber professionals.
Davies said cryptography is a "critical cornerstone." She said the department is preparing for new encryption standards.
Officials also flagged risks in operational technology. This includes systems used in shipyards and energy networks. Davies said many were "never intended to be directly connected to the internet."
The hearing also focused on slow approvals for new technology. Davies said the system "is much slower than it needs to be."
Lawmakers warned that cyber threats are growing. They cited risks from China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.
The Pentagon has faced pressure to modernize its systems. Officials say digital strength is now key to military power. Recent defense strategies have focused on cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity.
The department has also faced scrutiny over outdated systems and audit failures. Lawmakers from both parties have pushed for faster reforms and stronger partnerships with industry.