Cyber Security Initiative

The Cyber Security Initiative (Program Element 0305103C) is a research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) line item managed by the Missile Defense Agency (MDA) under the Department of Defense (DoD). Its primary objective is to enhance the counterintelligence (CI) capabilities in cyberspace, specifically focused on defending MDA administrative and missile defense fire control networks, as well as mobile devices, against foreign intelligence services and international terrorist organizations. The program is executed in accordance with DoD Directive 5240.02 and related instructions, and is coordinated with the Defense Intelligence Agency (DIA), which provides functional and fiscal oversight.

The DoD CI in Cyberspace Initiative is the central activity within this budget line. Its goals include detecting, identifying, neutralizing, and mitigating malicious cyber activities directed by foreign entities targeting MDA cyber assets. This is achieved through ongoing collaboration with the MDA Computer Emergency Response Team, which works to identify and respond to both external and insider threats. The initiative also involves conducting CI incident assessments and referring suspected cases to the Federal Bureau of Investigation (FBI) or military department CI organizations for further investigation, ensuring a coordinated response across agencies.

A key objective of the program is to perform CI forensics analysis on MDA computer network activity logs. This analysis seeks to uncover indicators of malicious activities, insider threats, and network attacks or exploitations. The program also coordinates with national and DoD-level intelligence, CI, and law enforcement agencies to identify foreign cyber actor intrusion sets, and to understand the tactics, techniques, and procedures used to target MDA and its cleared defense contractor networks.

These efforts are critical for maintaining the integrity and security of missile defense information and systems. Another important component is the coordination with MDA cleared defense contractors that have experienced compromises by foreign intelligence entities. The program captures and triages exfiltrated MDA-related data, enabling engineering teams to perform thorough damage assessments.

Additionally, the initiative provides initial and periodic training to the MDA workforce, ensuring personnel are informed about evolving foreign entity threats to DoD personnel, facilities, information, and IT systems. This training supports the broader goal of maintaining a vigilant and prepared workforce. The program also includes efforts to protect Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIFs) and Special Access Program areas from cellular and wireless device monitoring.

Support is provided to the MDA Counter Insider Threat program, which aims to identify and mitigate risks posed by individuals with authorized access who may act against agency interests. These protective measures are essential for safeguarding classified and sensitive information from unauthorized access or exploitation.

For FY 2026, the budget increase is specifically justified by the need for upgrades to hardware supporting cyber forensics activities. This enhancement will improve the program's ability to analyze and respond to cyber incidents more effectively. The acquisition strategy leverages expertise from the intelligence, counterintelligence, and information assurance communities, including military services, Federally Funded Research and Development Centers, University Affiliated Research Centers, and industry partners. Products and services are acquired competitively to maximize value and innovation.