Information System Security Program-ISSP

The Information System Security Program-ISSP is a critical line item in the Army's Other Procurement budget, specifically under Communications and Electronics Equipment for Information Security. The primary goal of the ISSP is to support the Army's Network Strategy by modernizing and securing the Department of Defense Information Network (DoDIN) against evolving cyber threats. This program is designed to collect, procure, and field solutions for Communication Security (COMSEC), key management capabilities, Information Assurance (IA), and cyber tools, as well as associated hardware infrastructure. The ISSP ensures that the Army can maintain secure communications and protect sensitive information across its networks.

A major objective of the ISSP is to advance the Army Key Management Infrastructure (AKMI), which provides unified, scalable, interoperable, and trusted key management services to systems that rely on cryptography. AKMI serves not only the Army but also the broader Department of Defense (DoD) cryptographic community. By supporting AKMI, the ISSP helps ensure that cryptographic modernization efforts are aligned with mandates from the Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff and the Joint Requirements Oversight Council. The focus is on advanced key management and network-centric performance capabilities.

The ISSP also prioritizes the identification and allocation of new and emerging COMSEC capabilities required to protect Army architectures. This includes replacing legacy cryptographic systems with technologically advanced, network-centric, and DoDIN-compliant devices. The program's procurement activities are justified by the need to keep pace with rapidly changing cyber threats and to comply with DoD requirements for secure communications.

The modernization of COMSEC hardware and software is essential for maintaining the integrity and confidentiality of Army communications in both operational and strategic environments. The ISSP supports automation of COMSEC processes and modernization of hardware infrastructure, which enhances the Army's ability to respond to operational mission needs and enables prioritization of COMSEC requirements. The program also provides for the lifecycle refresh of equipment to meet mandated cybersecurity requirements, such as those outlined in Defense Information System Agency (DISA) Security Technical Implementation Guides (STIGs) and Risk Management Framework (RMF) controls. These efforts are crucial for ensuring compliance with DoD cybersecurity standards and for maintaining the security posture of the Army's information systems.

In addition to procurement, the ISSP supports ongoing research and development of new information security technologies. The program works closely with agencies such as DISA and the broader DoD to ensure that new solutions are interoperable and meet the highest standards of security. By investing in both current and emerging technologies, the ISSP aims to future-proof Army communications and information systems against sophisticated cyber adversaries.

Another important aspect of the ISSP is its role in supporting the Total Force, which includes active duty, reserve, and National Guard components. By fielding modern COMSEC and IA solutions across all elements of the Army, the program ensures that every unit can operate securely within the DoDIN. This comprehensive approach to information security is justified by the increasing complexity of cyber threats and the need for a unified defense posture across all Army components.