Cyber Security Initiative

The Cyber Security Initiative is an Air Force research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) program focused on enhancing the integration of network sensor collections and analytical capabilities across the Air Force's Mission Defense Cyber Operations (MDCO). The primary objective of this initiative is to enable improved data sharing and exploitation of cyber threat information, strengthening the Air Force's ability to detect, analyze, and respond to cyber threats in operational environments. This program is categorized under Budget Activity 7, Operational Systems Development, which supports the development and upgrade of fielded systems that are either in full-rate production or are anticipated to receive production funding in the near future.

A key component of the Cyber Security Initiative is the development and integration of technical surveillance countermeasures equipment. The specific goal of this effort is to support the CI Process Exploit Dissemination (PED), focusing on the integration and analysis of MDCO sensor data. This is intended to enhance the Air Force's ability to process, exploit, and disseminate cyber intelligence derived from network sensors, thereby improving situational awareness and operational decision-making.

For Fiscal Years 2025 and 2026, the program plans to continue the integration of MDCO network sensor collections. The increase in funding for these years is attributed to inflationary adjustments in program requirements. The program does not currently include funding for civilian pay expenses, as these are covered under separate program elements, ensuring that the allocated funds are directed specifically toward research and development activities.

The acquisition strategy for the Cyber Security Initiative emphasizes the use of competitive contracts to the maximum extent possible. For the technical surveillance countermeasures equipment project, the contract is awarded to Perspecta (now Peraton), located in Reston, VA, utilizing a Cost Plus Award Fee (CPAF) contract method. This approach is designed to ensure flexibility and accountability in the development and integration of sensor collection technologies, while also promoting industry competition and innovation.

The program's schedule profile outlines a multi-year effort, beginning in the first quarter of FY 2025 and extending through the fourth quarter of FY 2030. The primary activities during this period include system development for CI Process Exploit Dissemination and ongoing analysis of MDCO sensor integration. These efforts are expected to result in incremental improvements to the Air Force's cyber defense capabilities, with a focus on operationalizing advanced sensor technologies and analytical processes.

There are no additional program funding summaries or related acquisition efforts associated with this line item, as the Cyber Security Initiative is a targeted RDT&E effort within the Air Force. The program's accomplishments and planned activities are closely aligned with the broader goal of enhancing cyber security and resilience across Air Force networks and operational systems. By investing in the integration of sensor collections and analytical capabilities, the initiative aims to provide the Air Force with a more robust and adaptive cyber defense posture.