Langevin Applauds DOD Cyber Strategy; Points Out Some Pieces Are Missing

Statement

As Co-Chair of the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) Commission that made recommendations to the executive branch on cybersecurity policy, Congressman Jim Langevin (D-RI) responded to the Department of Defense (DOD) plan released today that deals with the Pentagon's role in protecting against and responding to cyber threats. While commending the work done so far, Langevin pointed out areas that require further explanation. He also attended today's unveiling of the Defense Strategy for Operations in Cyberspace (DSOC).

"I want to congratulate Secretary Bill Lynn as well as all those in the Office of the Secretary and across our military cyber community for putting this together," said Langevin, who cofounded the Congressional Cybersecurity Caucus. "This Strategy is critical not just for organizing our own defenses but also for sending a message to our domestic and international partners about our military's stature on the Internet.

"However, there are some key areas where we must continue working to flesh out answers. Specifically, what are acceptable red lines for actions in cyberspace and what resources can and will the Defense Department provide to the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), private companies, and international partners to enable their own defense? Does data theft or disruption rise to the level of warfare or do we have to see a physical event, such as an attack on our power grid, before we respond militarily?

"Importantly, this plan outlines the Department's desire to cement close cooperation with DHS, define responsibilities for defending the .gov domain, and work with critical infrastructure to protect the Defense Industrial Base, develop a strong cyber workforce, and examine greater opportunities for the National Guard in cyberspace. In my role on the House Armed Services Committee, I will continue to see that the Department has the resources and authorities to carry out this strategy and help keep our military networks safe and secure for our warfighters."

The presentation of DSOC comes after the latest report by the CSIS Commission, titled Cybersecurity Two Years Later, was issued in January and called for "an expanded ability to use intelligence and military capabilities for defense against advanced foreign threats." Specifically, Langevin and his fellow commission members urged consideration of the military's role, which the Defense Department has addressed today.

"The administration and Congress should clarify our policies and laws to allow the military to fulfill its traditional role in protecting against foreign threats. Finding a way to do this in partnership with DHS and the private sector remains a fundamental challenge for cybersecurity policy," said the report.

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