Defense Industrial Base (DIB) Cyber Security Initiative

The Defense Industrial Base (DIB) Cyber Security Initiative, overseen by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, is designed to bolster the cybersecurity measures of defense contractors and subcontractors. This initiative centers on the development and maintenance of a cybersecurity assessment and verification program known as the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC). Its primary aim is to ensure adherence to federal contract requirements and safeguard controlled unclassified information from cybersecurity threats, including advanced persistent threats.

A significant focus of the initiative is evaluating the potential of emerging commercial services, tools, and platforms that can provide insights into cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities within the DIB and Department of Defense (DoD) supply chains. By collaborating with the DIB sector, DoD components, and other government agencies, the program seeks to demonstrate cost-effective and scalable cybersecurity services. These efforts are particularly directed at small-to-medium-sized DIB companies that play a crucial role in the DoD supply chain but may lack robust cybersecurity capabilities.

In FY 2024, plans include implementing a revised CMMC framework based on rulemaking outcomes and emerging cyber threats. The program will also integrate CMMC into federal regulations and continue developing training initiatives in partnership with entities like the Defense Acquisition University. Additionally, there will be ongoing efforts to enhance enterprise Mission Assurance Support Service (eMASS) databases and host services on milCloud 2.0.

For FY 2025, the initiative aims to operationalize the CMMC eMASS infrastructure while managing updates to align with National Institute of Standards and Technology standards. The program will also concentrate on collecting performance metrics to assess its effectiveness in strengthening DIB cybersecurity. Partnerships will remain a priority for advancing new and existing DoD initiatives focused on improving cybersecurity across the defense industrial base.