Cyber Resiliency: The New Benchmark for Readiness

October marks a significant month for the Navy, as it delves into the realm of cybersecurity with a focused initiative on the roles individuals play as “Cyber Warriors.” Cyber is essential to the Navy’s operational success, supporting both warfighting and business missions.

Every Monday this month, the Navy releases insights into various aspects of cybersecurity, highlighting the importance of vigilance across all roles. From fire control technicians to dispatchers, maintaining robust cybersecurity practices is essential in safeguarding naval operations.

The Chief of Naval Operations (CNO) envisions a future by 2027 where the Navy is primed for sustained combat in a joint force, with a strategic emphasis on countering the People’s Republic of China. Strengthening cyber defenses and improving resilience are vital to ensuring Sailors can operate effectively even amid cyber threats. The Office of the Director of National Intelligence identifies China as a recurrent cyber threat to the United States, targeting government, private, and critical infrastructure networks.

State-sponsored cyber adversaries aim to infiltrate U.S. networks to facilitate potential cyberattacks. Consequently, the Navy must be equipped to handle such threats, sustaining both infrastructure and military operations should a conflict arise.

Central to these efforts is the enhancement of the Navy’s cyber resiliency. This involves refining the ability to anticipate, endure, recover, and adapt following adverse conditions or attacks. Ensuring critical systems remain functional and capable is paramount in a contested cyberspace.

Achieving cyber resiliency is integral to the Navy reaching the CNO’s strategic objectives, ensuring readiness in the modern era’s interconnected battlefields.