LOSING TIME: Cyber Warfare Capabilities

Oct 17, 2017
Defense Drumbeat
“Every day we live under a continuing resolution is a day we do damage to our military.”  - Mac Thornberry, Chairman, House Armed Services Committee

Cyber Warfare Capabilities


THE PROBLEM:

Cyber defenses, resiliency, and cyber warfare capabilities are essential to defend America.  Our enemies have demonstrated an increasing ability to use cyber to attack America, our allies, and our interests. China, as one example, continues to develop holistic cyber strategies, and is rapidly becoming a cyber superpower that is cornering the market on information, influence, and communications technologies.

WHAT WE ARE DOING TODAY:

Under the current CR, incremental funding and delayed expenditures stunt the development and readiness of our national cyber warfare capabilities.  With freezes on certain contracts and procurement, our cyber mission forces lose flexibility and agility, and an ability to cancel or redirect requirements in a timely fashion.

WHAT WE COULD BE DOING:

The NDAA adds $8 billion to build and enhance defensive and offensive cyber capabilities, including closing critical gaps identified by the military services.

115th Congress