The 2023 DOD Cyber Strategy, recently transmitted to Congress, delineates the U.S. Department of Defense’s (DOD) strategic direction in operationalizing the priorities of various national strategies, building upon the learning from cyber operations experiences and observations from the Russia-Ukraine war. The strategy underscores the augmentation of collective cyber resilience by fostering allies and partners’ cyber capabilities and integrating cyber functionalities into traditional warfighting capabilities, marking it as a pivotal development in the DOD’s approach to homeland defense through the cyber domain.
The 2023 DOD Cyber Strategy (13 Sep 2023), is pivotal for the Department of Defense (DOD). It aligns with the priorities of the 2022 National Security Strategy and other key strategies. Building on the 2018 strategy, it charts a fresh strategic course for the department. This iteration is grounded in substantial experience from cyberspace operations, marking a first for the department.
Assistant Secretary John Plumb emphasized the strategy’s foundation on lessons from cyber operations and the Russia-Ukraine war observations. It underscores the necessity for collaboration with allies, industry partners, and enhancing cyber capabilities. The goal is to foster cyber resilience, ensuring preparedness to deter conflicts and to stand strong if deterrence fails. It is a strategy rooted in real-world experiences and partnerships.
The strategy outlines the DOD’s response to the escalating threats in cyberspace. It details how the department is leveraging its cyber capabilities to support integrated deterrence. The approach involves harmonizing cyberspace operations with other national power instruments. It is a blueprint for a robust response to diverse cyber threats, highlighting the DOD’s commitment to maximizing cyber capabilities in a challenging landscape.
Deputy Assistant Secretary Mieke Eoyang noted the strategy’s commitment to bolstering collective cyber resilience. It aims to enhance the cyber capabilities of allies and partners, a departure from previous versions. The strategy also mirrors the department’s dedication to homeland defense through the cyber domain, integrating cyber aspects into traditional warfighting capabilities. It is a forward-thinking strategy, focusing on collaborative resilience and integrated defense capabilities.
You can read the full summary on Defense.gov.