By Jackie McKnight, PM DCO, Strategic CommunicationsOctober
In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity; adaptability and innovation are paramount. As threats become more sophisticated and pervasive, organizations tasked with safeguarding sensitive information must constantly refine their strategies and tools. Project Manager Defensive Cyber Operations (PM DCO) is now making a significant transition to revolutionize the Army’s approach to cybersecurity and enhance their ability to protect against emerging threats as they join Program Executive Office Intelligence, Electronic, Warfare & Sensors’ (PEO IEW&S).
PEO IEW&S’ mission of designing, delivering and sustaining advanced technologies to give Soldiers the decisive edge, has long been at the forefront of offensive cyber operations, which will now be complimented from a defensive perspective with the addition of PM DCO.
“The days of the Army being a Kinetic only force are gone. Our ability to operate in multiple domains has become paramount with none more important than mastering the cyber warfare arena,” said Brig. Gen. Ed Barker, PEO for IEW&S.
In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity; adaptability and innovation are paramount. As threats become more sophisticated and pervasive, organizations tasked with safeguarding sensitive information must constantly refine their strategies and tools. Project Manager Defensive Cyber Operations (PM DCO) is now making a significant transition to revolutionize the Army’s approach to cybersecurity and enhance their ability to protect against emerging threats as they join Program Executive Office Intelligence, Electronic, Warfare & Sensors’ (PEO IEW&S).
PEO IEW&S’ mission of designing, delivering and sustaining advanced technologies to give Soldiers the decisive edge, has long been at the forefront of offensive cyber operations, which will now be complimented from a defensive perspective with the addition of PM DCO.
“The days of the Army being a Kinetic only force are gone. Our ability to operate in multiple domains has become paramount with none more important than mastering the cyber warfare arena,” said Brig. Gen. Ed Barker, PEO for IEW&S.
PM DCO represents a bold step forward, ushering on two key programs in their portfolio:
Cyber Platforms and Systems (CPS) provides total life cycle management capability to the force. CPS focuses on the procurement and delivery of cyber platforms and cybersecurity tools for the Armed Forces. The cyber platform is the foundational piece of equipment used by cyber-Soldiers. It allows them to conduct maneuvers on cyber terrain and affect Department of Defense Information Network defense. Defensive Cyberspace Operations Tools Suite provides industry’s best capabilities to the warfighter. These tools are used on the cyber platform to effectively conduct cyber protection team missions.
Cyber Analytics and Detection (CAD) provides capabilities that help Soldiers analyze and detect external and internal cyber threats to the Army. CAD focuses on software-based programs that support mission command, planning, integration, analysis and execution at all levels.
“The Army must contend with the constant evolution of advanced persistent threats, thus requiring the U.S. Army to remain vigilant and adaptive. DCO will continue to provide information dominance and decisive lethality with platforms and systems critical to defending the Department of Defense networks,” said Robert J. Zoppa, project manager for DCO. This transition comes at a critical juncture, as the digital landscape continues to evolve rapidly. The increasing interconnectivity of devices, the rise of remote work, and the growing reliance on cloud technologies all present new challenges that demand innovative solutions.
The transition of PM DCO along with the recent stand-up of the Project Manager Cyber & Space represents a significant bolstering of cyber capabilities for PEO IEW&S. It also reflects a dedication to staying ahead in the cybersecurity arms race. By embracing advanced technologies, enhancing their threat intelligence capabilities, and fostering collaboration, they are better positioned to protect organizations and individuals from the ever-evolving threat landscape.
In a world where cyber threats can have far-reaching consequences, PM DCO’s transition under PEO IEW&S serves as a key opportunity to thwart those threats. It underscores the resilience and adaptability of cybersecurity professionals who tirelessly work to ensure the safety and security of the digital world. The cybersecurity community will undoubtedly watch the merger closely, offering insights and inspiration for others in the field seeking to safeguard our digital future.