Defense Operations Security Initiative (DOSI)

The Defense Operations Security Initiative (DOSI), managed by the Office of the Secretary of Defense, is a research, development, test, and evaluation (RDT&E) program element designed to advance the Department of Defense's (DoD) next-generation Operations Security (OPSEC) capabilities. The primary objective of DOSI is to address and close current and emerging OPSEC capability gaps, particularly in countering the growing sophistication of non-U.S. Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance (ISR) capabilities. DOSI aims to deny adversaries insight into U.S. military capabilities, readiness, critical technologies, and sensitive information.

DOSI's goals are closely aligned with broader DoD strategic priorities, such as Defending the Homeland, Building Sustainable and Long-Term Advantage, and Taking Care of People. The program also supports the DoD Data Strategy by enabling advanced approaches to protect data as a strategic asset. Through targeted investments, DOSI seeks to spur innovation, preserve U.S. technological superiority, and ensure that OPSEC measures evolve in step with adversary capabilities and emerging threats.

A key objective of DOSI is to oversee and guide RDT&E activities on next-generation OPSEC capabilities. This includes research, development, prototyping, and testing of new technologies and processes that enhance the effectiveness of OPSEC practitioners across the Department. The program provides oversight and advocacy for transitioning these capabilities from the research phase into formalized program offices and executive offices within various DoD components. This process helps ensure that innovations are institutionalized and sustained.

For FY 2025 and FY 2026, DOSI plans to leverage the expertise of the Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence & Security (ARLIS) to conduct in-depth analysis of foreign ISR capabilities, develop risk mitigation strategies, and support the proliferation of coordinated OPSEC measures. The program will also continue to support R&D efforts within the DoD Intelligence Community by identifying and assessing adversary threats, proposing mitigation measures, and developing information systems that facilitate OPSEC monitoring and response.

DOSI's test and evaluation activities are designed to establish the effectiveness of OPSEC measures and countermeasures in both current and emerging operational environments. These analyses help the DoD community assess the performance of new technologies and processes, ensuring that they provide measurable improvements in protecting sensitive information and operational security.

The acquisition and management strategy for DOSI adheres to established DoD and federal acquisition regulations, including DoD 5000 and the Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR). The program emphasizes a disciplined yet agile approach to delivering OPSEC capabilities, with a focus on signature management and obfuscation. This ensures that the DoD can rapidly field and sustain capabilities that are responsive to the needs of the warfighter and effective in today's dynamic, networked battlespace.