Communications of the ACM
Pentagon to Boost Cybersecurity Force
A network defender works at the Air Force Space Command Network Operations & Security Center in Colorado Springs, Colo.
Credit: Reuters
The Pentagon has approved plans to expand its cybersecurity force more than fivefold to protect the U.S.'s critical computer systems and conduct offensive computer operations against foreign enemies. The move is part of a larger strategy to transform the U.S. Department of Defense's Cyber Command from a defensive organization into an Internet-era weapon of war.
The plan calls for the creation of "national mission forces," which protect computer systems that control vital infrastructure, "combat mission forces," which help commanders abroad complete offensive operations, and "cyber protection forces," which strengthen Defense Department networks.
Officials say the plan will enable the Cyber Command to better fulfill its mission. "Given the malicious actors that are out there and the development of the technology, in my mind, there's little doubt that some adversary is going to attempt a significant cyberattack on the United States at some point," says former deputy Defense secretary William J. Lynn, who helped develop the Pentagon's cybersecurity strategy. "The only question is whether we're going to take the necessary steps like this one to deflect the impact of the attack in advance or . . . read about the steps we should have taken in some post-attack commission report."
From The Washington Post
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