Military Cyberspace: From Evolution to Revolution
Abstract
The evolution of communications networks into the cyber warfighting domain presents challenges across the doctrine, organization, training, materiel, personnel, and facilities (DOTMLPF) spectrum. The Department of Defense (DoD) created new joint and service headquarters to address these challenges and to address cyberspace risks to national security. While these headquarters have been able to make some progress in addressing cyber challenges, the current DoD approach to cyber depends on antiquated doctrinal concepts, mission command constructs, and indefensible network architectures. No single organization in the DoD has the responsibility to build, operate, and defend cyber networks. Each Service runs its own network with network operations and security centers (NOSCs) spread across the globe. These networks and NOSCs are hidden under various layers of command below the Geographic Combatant Command (GCC) and are not readily responsive to the warfighter's requirements. The current cyber force organization also makes it extremely difficult for U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) to execute their mission of directing the security, operation, and defense of the DoD global information grid (GIG). The lack of a clear cyber chain of command greatly hinders cyberspace operations. In addition, the current DoD network architecture is so complex that military cyberspace is indefensible. Compounding these problems, the current service-centric cyber approach is extremely inefficient. Can a DoD enterprise approach to cyberspace correct these deficiencies, effectively support the GCCs, and enable USCYBERCOM) to accomplish its mission?
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Feb 08, 2012
- Accession Number
- ADA561509
Entities
People
- Kurt Schosek
Organizations
- United States Army War College