Raj Iyer

CIO, Information Technology Reform, Army 

The Army was in the midst of significant technological and organizational changes when Raj Iyer took the reins in 2020. 

Now, Iyer is deeply involved in the capital planning and execution of an $18 billion portfolio to implement an enterprise information management system that employs cloud computing, edge computing, machine learning and an increasing array of sensor systems. The new system will provide soldiers a responsive, effective, secure communication and IT system, he said. 

“Over the last few years, the Army senior leadership has gone through tremendous transformation to gain a greater understanding of technology and the role technology is going to play,” Iyer said. “Technology is no longer in the back office of the Army. Whether you are in uniform or a civilian, you are going to have to be tech savvy to fight the future fight. We have now put digital transformation front and center in how we are going to fight.”

Why Watch

Iyer’s main focus for 2021 is to leverage the cloud to make it easier, faster and less expensive to upgrade and improve IT capabilities in the Army. As part of that effort, the Army is transitioning to Army 365, a cloud-based product that will enhance communications and agility. The Army is in the process of transitioning from legacy systems to emerging technology that will streamline and advance capabilities.