U.S. Representative Don Bacon, Chairman of the Subcommittee on Cyber, Information Technologies, and Innovation, addressed the importance of military information technology during a House Armed Services Committee hearing on Mar. 26 in Washington, D.C.
The topic is significant as the Department of Defense relies heavily on secure and efficient digital infrastructure for operations, payroll, planning, and command functions. Bacon said that “we fight at the speed of data, and the underlying IT has never been more important.” He emphasized that understanding the current state of critical IT networks is essential for national defense.
Bacon outlined his interest in learning about plans to modernize networks within the Department of Defense and provide access to secure cloud environments across all security levels. He also raised concerns about ensuring cybersecurity for both Department assets and those within its industrial base. “If the networks don’t work, nothing else will,” Bacon said.
During his remarks, Bacon welcomed Kirsten Davies as Chief Information Officer for the Department of Defense. Davies joined from industry in December with two decades’ experience leading large-scale cybersecurity efforts.
The House Armed Services Committee includes members such as Representatives Joe Wilson, Michael R. Turner and Robert J. Wittman according to its official website. The committee oversees programs related to national defense under U.S. Code according to its official website, with Rep. Mike Rogers serving as chair during recent Congress sessions according to its official website. The committee also influences legislation through measures like community project funding via processes such as the National Defense Authorization Act according to its official website. Its jurisdiction is defined by Rule X in the U.S. House Rules and Manual according to its official website and it plays a key role in congressional oversight for military affairs according to its official website.
Looking ahead, Bacon indicated that artificial intelligence developments would be discussed further at an upcoming Research and Engineering posture hearing but reiterated that these advancements depend fundamentally on robust IT systems.
