Distributed Cyber Warfare Operations

The Distributed Cyber Warfare Operations (DCWO) program is a key Air Force initiative under Program Element 0208087F, focused on the research, development, testing, and evaluation (RDT&E) of offensive cyberspace capabilities. The overarching goal of DCWO is to deliver operationally ready offensive cyber tools and platforms that support Combatant Commanders and other cyber mission customers, ultimately enabling air superiority in contested environments. The program integrates efforts from laboratory, industry, and academic sources through studies, prototyping, and technology demonstrations. This approach ensures a rapid transition of advanced cyber capabilities into operational use.

AF Offensive Cyber Operations is the primary project within DCWO, balancing acquisition-related RDT&E across three Air Force offensive cyber operations (OCO) mission threads: Off Network, Telephony Network, and the associated Infrastructure that supports both. These mission threads are further divided into three technical enablers Platforms, Access, and Cyber Weapons each responsible for delivering specific products, services, and systems. The project's objectives include developing and integrating modular and configurable frameworks for cyberspace operations, such as the USAF Cyber Mission Platform (CMP). CMP employs an Agile acquisition strategy to prioritize and deliver capabilities based on operational needs.

Platform Capabilities within DCWO, previously managed under the AF CMP thrust, are designed to support both Off Network and Telephony Network operations. Key goals include the development and fielding of capabilities to enable Cyber Enabled Air Superiority (CEAS), the integration of Network Attack System (NAS) capabilities, and the creation of mission planning tools. Infrastructure development under this line item focuses on Air Force-unique connectivity solutions, including Coral Dragon, Secure View (SV), and the Cross-Domain Shared Services Framework (CDSSF). These elements are critical for supporting cyber mission requirements.

Access/Infrastructure Capabilities are essential for providing the connectivity and foundational systems required to conduct offensive cyber operations. The DCWO program office develops and fields these solutions, leveraging both government and industry partner applications. Objectives for Access include continuing the development of capabilities for Off Network operations and integrating solutions for Telephony Network access. Infrastructure efforts also encompass the deployment of systems like Kraken, SV, and CDSSF, ensuring robust support for mission requirements across all cyber domains.

Cyber Weapons Capabilities, formerly referred to as Payloads, represent the offensive tools and effects delivered through the DCWO portfolio. The program aims to develop and field Air Force-unique cyber weapon systems, which are integrated into the broader infrastructure supporting both Off Network and Telephony Network operations. These efforts are managed and sustained by the Air Force Life Cycle Management Center, Cyber Warfare Mission Systems Program Management Office, ensuring alignment with operational needs and Congressional requirements, including the transition of responsibilities to USCYBERCOM as mandated by the FY22 NDAA.

The DCWO program also includes funding for civilian pay expenses necessary to manage, execute, and deliver weapon system capabilities, supplementing other program elements. The program's acquisition strategy utilizes a streamlined approach, employing multiple government-wide and commercial contractual vehicles to ensure competition and access to a broad range of products and services. This strategy supports the rapid development and deployment of offensive cyber capabilities, while also promoting cost efficiencies in alignment with executive policy directives.