Collaboration and Standardization Are Key to DOD's Battery Strategy, Meeting U.S. Energy Objectives

Deputy Defense Secretary Kathleen H. Hicks emphasizes the crucial role of a healthy battery supply chain in military capabilities and national security, stating that "America needs to lead the world" in battery technology. Batteries play a vital and dynamic role in delivering effective battlefield operations, securing critical defense supply chains, and driving America's clean energy future. The Defense Department heavily relies on batteries for communication, autonomous vehicles, directed energy weapons, and electrification of warfighting platforms.

Andrew Higier, acting director of the energy portfolio at the Defense Innovation Unit, highlights the challenges posed by the supply chain and integration issues in advanced batteries. The commercial supply chain heavily relies on adversarial nations, resulting in slow, cumbersome, and costly integration of new batteries. The Defense Department's annual procurements of specialized battery designs for critical weapons systems create affordability challenges and limit market capability.

To address these challenges, the Defense Department aims to optimize its buying power by better leveraging the commercial market. The 2022 Securing Defense-Critical Supply Chains report suggests aligning industry and military battery standards across tactical vehicles, unmanned systems, and military installations. This alignment will ensure affordable production of future defense requirements while meeting the needs of warfighters.

The report recognizes the Defense Department's current limitations as an industry partner in battery acquisition. The existing process involves low-volume purchases of bespoke batteries through short-term contracts, with limited consideration for the security of the supply chain. This approach incurs high non-recurring engineering costs and relies on components from less-than-secure sources. By improving the understanding of battery procurement and standardizing where feasible, the Defense Department aims to increase buying power and better inform industry about its future needs.

The Office of Industrial Base Policy (IBP) is collaborating with the Defense Innovation Unit (DIU) to tap into U.S. and allied partner-based industry innovation and the growing commercial battery market. DIU serves as the commercial solution gateway, leveraging private sector investments in battery development to create scalable products with traditional and non-traditional industry partners. These technology partnerships in advanced batteries ensure the Defense Department keeps pace with industry advancements, moving beyond program-by-program procurement.

Halimah Najieb-Locke, Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Resilience, emphasizes the importance of sending a consistent and coherent demand signal to industry. By coordinating efforts and aligning standards, the Defense Department ensures that the batteries used by the military are available, ready, and free from adversarial influence.

To standardize and aggregate battery demand, the following action plan has been proposed:

1. Bring In Commercial Best of Breed: Source rechargeable battery cells from domestic and allied battery manufacturers to meet DoD storage capacity and performance requirements.

2. Perfect the Standard Form Factors: Demonstrate high-capacity rechargeable battery packs using standardized cells across various use case categories, including single cell batteries, hand-held devices, soldier-worn equipment, and vehicle battery packs.

3. Integrate into Critical Platforms: Optionally integrate newly standardized rechargeable batteries into respective devices for performance characterization and testing.

DIU's Jumpstart for Advanced Battery Standardization program is already underway as the first step in bringing the commercial market into defense batteries. This program prototypes commercial electric vehicle (EV) batteries at the module and pack level to inform the integration process into military vehicles and future platform electrification specifications.

The Family of Advanced Standard Batteries (FASTBat) project by DIU focuses on streamlining battery procurement and integration. By aggregating the Defense Department's purchasing power, increasing demand signals to commercial battery manufacturers, and providing approved battery pack form-fit-function, this project aims to address supply chain and design challenges for powering military systems.

The Department of the Navy and IBP have secured significant investments in battery standardization, analytics, and infrastructure. These investments align with the initiatives outlined in the DoD's Lithium Battery Strategy 2023-2030, demonstrating the department's ability to turn strategy into action. Collaboration with the Department of Energy ensures the development of a domestic lithium battery industrial base supported by secure and resilient supply chains.

The FY 2024 defense budget request, aligned with the mission, emphasizes critical investments in revitalizing the defense industrial base, driving innovation, and building enduring advantages. Approximately $6 billion is allocated to foster industrial base resilience, including $125 million for battery and energy storage.

Dr. Laura Taylor-Kale, the recently sworn-in Assistant Secretary of Defense for Industrial Base Policy, expresses enthusiasm for working on industrial base and supply chain issues that are central concerns across government and industry. Collaboration with key departmental, interagency, and international partners aims to scale up new advanced manufacturing technology in critical sectors such as batteries, microelectronics, and renewable energy.

The Defense Department is committed to ensuring access to critical battery technologies that will power the future force. By prioritizing collaboration, standardization, and leveraging the commercial market, the department aims to address challenges, enhance efficiency, and maintain technological leadership in battery development for military application

nleashing Innovation: Exploring the Army's Corporate Research Laboratory

In the pursuit of military superiority, innovation stands as a critical pillar for any nation's defense forces. Recognizing this, the United States Army has established its own dedicated research and development hub known as the Army's Corporate Research Laboratory (ARL). This article delves into the purpose, functions, and contributions of the ARL in driving technological advancements for the U.S. Army.

Mission and Objectives

The primary mission of the ARL is to conduct cutting-edge research, development, and analysis to enable decisive overmatch for the U.S. Army in future conflicts. It serves as the Army's principal laboratory for developing and maturing scientific and technological solutions that enhance the Army's capabilities across various domains, including land, air, and cyberspace.

Research Areas

The ARL engages in multidisciplinary research across a wide spectrum of fields, encompassing advanced materials, robotics, artificial intelligence, energy, human performance, and more. By exploring these diverse areas, the ARL aims to drive innovation and provide the Army with state-of-the-art technologies and capabilities to maintain its strategic advantage.

Collaboration and Partnerships

The ARL thrives on collaboration and partnerships with academic institutions, industry leaders, and other government agencies. By forging these relationships, the ARL taps into a vast network of expertise and resources, fostering an environment of knowledge exchange and cross-pollination of ideas. Collaborative efforts enable the ARL to leverage diverse perspectives and accelerate the development and deployment of innovative solutions.

Technology Transfer and Commercialization

Beyond serving the Army's needs, the ARL plays a crucial role in technology transfer and commercialization. Through licensing agreements and partnerships with industry, the ARL facilitates the transition of research outcomes into practical applications and commercial products. This technology transfer not only benefits the Army but also has broader implications for civilian sectors, contributing to economic growth and national prosperity.

Contributions to Future Warfare

The ARL's research and development efforts are geared towards enabling the Army to effectively respond to emerging threats and challenges in future warfare scenarios. One significant area of focus is the development of advanced autonomous systems, including unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), ground vehicles, and robotic platforms. These systems aim to enhance situational awareness, provide logistics support, and reduce the risk to human personnel on the battlefield.

The ARL is also at the forefront of research in artificial intelligence and machine learning, enabling the Army to leverage these technologies for improved decision-making, predictive analysis, and information processing. These advancements have the potential to revolutionize the way military operations are conducted, enhancing effectiveness and efficiency.

Moreover, the ARL's research on materials science and engineering plays a vital role in developing advanced protective gear, lightweight armor, and next-generation weaponry. By exploring novel materials and manufacturing processes, the ARL contributes to enhancing soldier survivability and ensuring that the Army remains at the cutting edge of military technology.

Conclusion

The Army's Corporate Research Laboratory serves as a vital engine of innovation for the U.S. Army. Through its multidisciplinary research, collaboration with external partners, and technology transfer initiatives, the ARL strives to provide the Army with technological superiority on the modern battlefield. By embracing emerging technologies, fostering partnerships, and advancing scientific knowledge, the ARL remains committed to shaping the future of warfare and ensuring the Army's readiness to address evolving threats and challenges.

The History of DARPA: Pioneering Technological Innovations for National Security

Since its establishment in 1958, the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) has been at the forefront of technological innovation, driving advancements that have shaped the landscape of national security, science, and technology. DARPA's rich history is a testament to its mission of preventing technological surprise and maintaining the technological superiority of the United States. In this article, we will delve into the remarkable history of DARPA, exploring its key milestones, groundbreaking projects, and lasting impact on society.

DARPA traces its roots to the aftermath of the Soviet Union's successful launch of the Sputnik satellite in 1957. Concerned about the implications of this achievement for national security, the United States government established the Advanced Research Projects Agency (ARPA) to catalyze research and development efforts that could match or surpass the Soviet Union's technological advancements.

ARPA's early years were marked by a spirit of audacity and ambition. The agency embarked on a series of visionary projects that pushed the boundaries of science and engineering. One of its earliest successes was the creation of the ARPANET, a pioneering computer network that laid the foundation for the internet as we know it today. Through ARPANET, researchers connected computers at various universities and research institutions, facilitating the exchange of information and setting the stage for the digital revolution that would follow.

In the 1960s and 1970s, ARPA focused on research areas with significant military implications. Project MAC (Multiple Access Computers) aimed to develop time-sharing computer systems, making it possible for multiple users to access a single computer simultaneously. This groundbreaking work paved the way for the development of modern operating systems and laid the foundation for the personal computer revolution.

Another landmark project during this period was the creation of ARPANET's successor, the Defense Data Network (DDN). DDN established the framework for secure and reliable communication between military installations, a critical component of defense infrastructure. Its success demonstrated the transformative power of computer networks for military operations and civilian applications alike.

In the 1980s and 1990s, ARPA underwent a significant transformation. In 1972, it was renamed the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA) to reflect its evolving mission and expanded scope. DARPA shifted its focus to more specific areas of research and development, including advanced weaponry, autonomous systems, and emerging technologies.

During this period, DARPA played a pivotal role in the development of stealth technology, leading to the creation of the world's first operational stealth aircraft, the F-117 Nighthawk. DARPA's investment in research on materials, aerodynamics, and radar evasion techniques resulted in a game-changing advancement in military aviation, providing the United States with a strategic advantage.

DARPA also spearheaded research in artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics. Projects such as Shakey, the first mobile robot capable of reasoning and problem-solving, showcased the potential of AI for complex tasks. The development of autonomous vehicles, including the DARPA Grand Challenge, paved the way for advancements in self-driving cars and revolutionized transportation and logistics.

In the 21st century, DARPA continued to push the boundaries of technological innovation. The agency led efforts in cybersecurity, recognizing the growing threats posed by malicious actors in cyberspace. DARPA's research and development initiatives focused on enhancing the resilience and security of critical information infrastructure, leading to advancements in cryptography, secure communications, and network defense.

DARPA also made significant contributions to the field of biotechnology and healthcare. The development of advanced prosthetics, such as the DARPA-funded DEKA Arm, revolutionized the capabilities of prosthetic limbs, providing unprecedented levels of functionality and dexterity for amputees. DARPA's investment in brain-computer interfaces aimed at restoring sensory and motor functions further showcased the agency's commitment to advancing healthcare technologies.

One of DARPA's most notable recent projects is the development of the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency Network (DARPANET), a new network infrastructure that aims to revolutionize communications and data transmission capabilities for military use. This project seeks to create a secure and resilient network architecture that can withstand cyber attacks and disruptions, ensuring reliable and secure communication in critical military operations.

Beyond its specific projects, DARPA's influence extends to the broader technology and innovation ecosystem. The agency's emphasis on fostering collaborations between academia, industry, and government has led to the creation of a robust network of partnerships. DARPA's approach of funding high-risk, high-reward projects has also inspired other organizations to adopt similar models, fueling innovation across various sectors.

In conclusion, the history of DARPA is a testament to its relentless pursuit of technological innovation and its commitment to maintaining national security. From the creation of the ARPANET to pioneering advancements in stealth technology, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity, DARPA has consistently pushed the boundaries of what is possible. As we look to the future, DARPA's legacy serves as a constant reminder of the transformative power of research and development in shaping the world we live in.

 

High Definition Technology: Transforming the Way We Experience Media

In today's digital age, high definition (HD) technology has become an integral part of our daily lives. From televisions and cameras to streaming services and video games, HD technology has revolutionized the way we experience and consume media. With its stunning visual clarity and immersive audio quality, HD has transformed our entertainment landscape and opened up new possibilities for capturing and sharing moments. In this article, we will delve into the world of high definition technology, exploring its history, impact, and future prospects.

The concept of high definition can be traced back to the early days of television. In the 1930s, experiments were conducted to improve the picture quality of televisions, leading to the development of the first high definition television systems. However, it wasn't until the late 20th century that HD technology truly took off.

The breakthrough came with the introduction of digital broadcasting and the adoption of widescreen displays. In the early 1990s, analog television systems started transitioning to digital, paving the way for high definition content. The first high definition television broadcasts were launched in the late 1990s, offering viewers an unprecedented level of picture clarity and detail.

HD technology brought about a significant shift in the television industry. Traditional cathode ray tube (CRT) televisions were gradually replaced by sleek flat-panel displays capable of rendering high definition content. The transition was accelerated by the development of new display technologies, such as liquid crystal displays (LCDs) and plasma displays, which offered higher resolutions and better color reproduction.

The defining characteristic of HD technology is its ability to deliver a higher level of detail and resolution compared to standard definition (SD) formats. HD content is characterized by a minimum resolution of 720 vertical lines (720p) or 1,080 vertical lines (1080p). This increase in pixel density translates into sharper images, vibrant colors, and a more immersive viewing experience.

The impact of HD technology extended beyond televisions. Cameras and camcorders also embraced high definition capabilities, enabling users to capture moments with stunning clarity. The advent of high-definition camcorders and digital cameras revolutionized photography and videography, empowering amateurs and professionals alike to create visually stunning content.

Streaming services played a pivotal role in popularizing HD content. Platforms like Netflix, Amazon Prime Video, and YouTube made HD streaming accessible to a broader audience, offering a vast library of movies, TV shows, and user-generated content in high definition. The convenience of streaming combined with the visual appeal of HD content fueled the rise of binge-watching and transformed the way we consume television series and movies.

Gaming also experienced a significant shift with the advent of HD technology. High-definition graphics and realistic visuals became essential elements of modern gaming consoles and PCs. Gamers could immerse themselves in intricately detailed virtual worlds, experiencing an unprecedented level of realism and visual fidelity. The introduction of high-definition gaming led to a surge in demand for powerful hardware capable of delivering smooth gameplay and lifelike graphics.

The impact of HD technology extended beyond the realm of entertainment. Various industries, including healthcare, education, and advertising, leveraged high definition to enhance their offerings. In healthcare, HD imaging technologies allowed for more accurate diagnoses and improved surgical procedures. In education, high-definition displays and projectors transformed classrooms into dynamic learning environments, where students could engage with rich multimedia content. In advertising, HD screens and displays provided an immersive platform for captivating consumers with visually stunning advertisements.

As HD technology continues to evolve, the industry is pushing the boundaries even further with the introduction of Ultra High Definition (UHD) or 4K resolution. UHD offers four times the resolution of HD, delivering an even sharper and more detailed image. Combined with High Dynamic Range (HDR) technology, which enhances contrast and color accuracy, UHD has taken visual fidelity to new heights.

The proliferation of UHD televisions and streaming services has paved the way for a new era of media consumption. Viewers can now enjoy movies, TV shows, and even live sports events in breathtaking detail. The gaming industry has also embraced UHD, with consoles and PCs capable of rendering games in 4K resolution, providing gamers with an unmatched level of visual immersion.

Looking ahead, the future of high definition technology holds even more exciting possibilities. The emergence of Virtual Reality (VR) and Augmented Reality (AR) has opened up new avenues for immersive experiences. HD visuals combined with VR and AR technologies can transport users to virtual worlds and overlay digital content onto the real world, revolutionizing industries such as gaming, entertainment, and training.

In conclusion, high definition technology has transformed the way we experience and consume media. From the early days of digital broadcasting to the rise of UHD and VR, HD has revolutionized televisions, cameras, gaming, and various industries. With its stunning visual clarity and immersive audio quality, high definition has become the new standard, captivating audiences and enhancing our media experiences. As technology continues to advance, we can expect even more remarkable developments in high definition, promising an even more immersive and visually stunning future.

Robots, Robotics, and Law Enforcement: Transforming the Future of Criminal Justice

In recent years, the integration of robots and robotics in various industries has been transforming the way we work and live. One area where these advancements have significant implications is in law enforcement and criminal justice. From enhancing crime prevention to improving investigations and even assisting in dangerous operations, robots are revolutionizing the field. This article explores the diverse applications of robots and robotics in law enforcement, their benefits, challenges, and the future they hold.

Crime Prevention and Surveillance:

 Robots equipped with advanced sensors and artificial intelligence (AI) algorithms have proven to be valuable tools in crime prevention and surveillance. Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), commonly known as drones, provide law enforcement agencies with aerial surveillance capabilities, enabling them to monitor large areas efficiently and gather real-time information. Drones are particularly useful in search and rescue operations, crowd monitoring, and monitoring high-crime areas.

Additionally, robotic surveillance systems with autonomous patrolling capabilities can be deployed to monitor public spaces, detect suspicious activities, and provide early warning to law enforcement officers. These systems leverage technologies such as facial recognition, object detection, and behavioral analysis algorithms to identify potential threats and enhance public safety.\

Investigation and Forensics:

Robots play a significant role in streamlining investigations and forensic processes. Automated robots equipped with cameras and sensors can be deployed to document crime scenes, collecting precise and reliable evidence while minimizing human error. These robots can navigate challenging terrains and access confined spaces, enabling investigators to gather critical information without putting themselves at risk.

Moreover, robots with sophisticated algorithms can analyze large volumes of digital data, such as surveillance footage or text records, to assist in identifying patterns, suspects, and connections. This AI-powered analysis greatly speeds up investigations and provides valuable insights to law enforcement agencies.

Bomb Disposal and Hazardous Situations:

One of the most prominent applications of robots in law enforcement is bomb disposal. Bomb disposal robots equipped with manipulator arms and remote-controlled capabilities allow bomb technicians to approach and disable explosive devices safely. These robots are equipped with cameras, sensors, and tools that provide real-time feedback to the operator, ensuring precise and controlled operations in high-risk situations.

Additionally, robots can be used in hazardous material incidents, such as chemical spills or nuclear incidents, to gather information, assess risks, and even perform tasks like containment or sample collection. By utilizing robots, law enforcement agencies can safeguard the lives of their personnel and minimize the impact of dangerous situations.

Rehabilitation and Support: 

Robots also play a role in the rehabilitation and support of offenders within the criminal justice system. Robot-assisted therapy has shown promise in helping individuals with behavioral disorders, substance abuse issues, or post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) to cope and reintegrate into society. These robots can provide structured interventions, monitor progress, and offer a non-judgmental and consistent presence to support individuals through their rehabilitation journey.

Ethical Considerations and Challenges: 

While the integration of robots in law enforcement brings numerous benefits, it also raises important ethical considerations. Privacy concerns related to surveillance technologies and the use of facial recognition algorithms must be carefully addressed to balance public safety with individual rights. Additionally, the potential for biased or discriminatory algorithms requires close scrutiny to ensure fairness and avoid perpetuating existing societal inequalities.

Moreover, the reliance on robots should never undermine the value of human judgment and empathy in law enforcement. While robots can enhance efficiency and safety, human involvement and decision-making remain essential in complex situations that require empathy, discretion, and ethical judgment.

Conclusion:

The use of robots and robotics in law enforcement and criminal justice systems is revolutionizing the way crimes are prevented, investigations are conducted, and public safety is maintained. From crime prevention and surveillance to bomb disposal and rehabilitation

The History of Forensic Science: Unraveling the Secrets of Crime

 Forensic science, the application of scientific techniques and principles to the investigation of crimes, has become an indispensable tool in modern criminal justice systems. From analyzing fingerprints and DNA to examining trace evidence and ballistics, forensic science has played a pivotal role in solving countless criminal cases and ensuring justice is served. The fascinating history of forensic science is a testament to humanity's relentless pursuit of truth and justice.

The origins of forensic science can be traced back to ancient civilizations. In ancient China, as early as the 6th century BCE, officials would use fingerprints to authenticate documents and clay seals. Similarly, in ancient Babylon, fingerprints were used on clay tablets for business transactions. These early practices laid the groundwork for the recognition of the uniqueness and permanence of fingerprints, a cornerstone of modern forensic identification.

In the 18th century, the field of forensic science took significant strides forward. In 1784, John Toms became the first person to be convicted based on fingerprint evidence in England. This breakthrough marked a turning point in the acceptance of fingerprinting as a reliable method of identification. The following century witnessed further advancements, such as the development of photography, which allowed for the documentation and comparison of fingerprints, as well as the establishment of forensic toxicology as a discipline.

One of the most influential figures in the history of forensic science is Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's fictional detective, Sherlock Holmes. Although a fictional character, Holmes showcased the power of observation, deduction, and logical reasoning in solving crimes. The popularity of Holmes inspired real-life forensic scientists, including Dr. Edmond Locard, who established the first forensic laboratory in Lyon, France, in 1910.

The 20th century witnessed significant breakthroughs in various forensic disciplines. In 1984, Sir Alec Jeffreys revolutionized criminal investigations with the discovery of DNA profiling. DNA analysis has since become one of the most powerful tools in forensic science, allowing for the identification and exclusion of suspects with an unprecedented level of accuracy.

Forensic science has expanded beyond fingerprints and DNA to encompass numerous specialized fields. Forensic toxicology examines the presence of drugs or poisons in the body, while forensic entomology utilizes insects to estimate the time of death. Forensic anthropology analyzes skeletal remains to determine age, sex, and possible cause of death. Furthermore, forensic ballistics and tool mark analysis help link firearms and other weapons to crimes.

The evolution of forensic science has not been without challenges. In the past, some forensic techniques were based on subjective interpretations, leading to the potential for error and wrongful convictions. The field has since embraced scientific rigor, quality control measures, and the validation of methods to ensure accuracy and reliability. Additionally, advancements in technology, such as computerized databases and automated fingerprint identification systems, have enhanced the efficiency and efficacy of forensic investigations.

Forensic science has also experienced significant advancements in the courtroom. Expert witnesses play a crucial role in presenting scientific evidence, explaining complex concepts to juries, and assisting in the administration of justice. However, ensuring the ethical use of forensic evidence and promoting transparency in its presentation remain ongoing challenges that require continuous scrutiny and improvement.

As we step into the 21st century, forensic science continues to evolve rapidly. Emerging technologies, such as artificial intelligence and machine learning, hold the promise of further enhancing the capabilities of forensic investigators. Moreover, the field is adapting to the growing challenges posed by cybercrime and digital evidence, requiring forensic experts to develop expertise in the examination of electronic devices and networks.

The history of forensic science is a testament to human ingenuity and the pursuit of justice. It has transformed the way crimes are investigated, providing law enforcement agencies with powerful tools to unravel the secrets hidden within the physical evidence. As science and technology continue to advance, forensic science will undoubtedly play an increasingly vital role in the criminal justice system, ensuring that the guilty are brought to justice and the innocent are exonerated.

Protecting the American People: An Overview of the 2023 DoD Cyber Strategy

The Department of Defense (DoD) has recently shared its classified 2023 DoD Cyber Strategy with Congress, outlining its approach to operating in and through cyberspace to protect the American people and advance the defense priorities of the United States. This strategy is aligned with the 2022 National Security Strategy and the 2022 National Defense Strategy and builds upon the 2018 DoD Cyber Strategy while complementing the 2023 National Cybersecurity Strategy.

Grounded in real-world experience, the 2023 DoD Cyber Strategy takes into account significant cyberspace operations conducted by the Department since 2018. These operations have been carried out through the policy of defending forward, actively disrupting malicious cyber activity before it can impact the U.S. Homeland. Additionally, the strategy is informed by Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine, which showcased how cyber capabilities can be employed in large-scale conventional conflicts.

The Department's approach to the cyber domain is shaped by these experiences and emphasizes several key points:

1. Integrated Deterrence: The Department aims to maximize its cyber capabilities to support integrated deterrence. This involves employing cyberspace operations in conjunction with other national instruments of power.

2. Campaigning Below the Level of Armed Conflict: The Department will conduct operations in and through cyberspace below the level of armed conflict. This approach reinforces deterrence and frustrates adversaries.

3. Protection and Reinforcement of Allies and Partners: The Department recognizes the importance of the United States' global network of Allies and partners in the cyber domain. It acknowledges that this network represents a foundational advantage that must be protected and reinforced.

The Department faces an increasingly contested cyberspace environment characterized by various threats:

• The People's Republic of China (PRC): The PRC is identified as the Department's pacing challenge in the cyber domain. It has made significant investments in military cyber capabilities and has authorized proxy organizations to engage in malicious cyber activities against the United States.

• Russia: Russia poses a significant threat in cyberspace, demonstrated by its malign influence efforts against the United States and repeated cyber attacks targeting Ukrainian civilian critical infrastructure.

• North Korea, Iran, and Violent Extremist Organizations: These entities continue to present persistent cyber threats.

• Transnational Criminal Organizations: These groups pose a unique threat in cyberspace due to their technical expertise and close alignment with the foreign policy objectives of their host governments.

To address these current and future cyber threats, the Department will pursue four complementary lines of effort:

1. Defend the Nation: The Department will conduct campaigns in and through cyberspace to gain insights into malicious cyber actors. It will also defend forward to disrupt and degrade the capabilities and supporting ecosystems of these actors. Additionally, the DoD will collaborate with interagency partners to enhance the cyber resilience of critical infrastructure and counter threats to military readiness.

2. Prepare to Fight and Win: The Department will prioritize the cybersecurity of the DoD Information Network and invest in the cyber resilience of the Joint Force. Cyberspace operations will be employed to generate asymmetric advantages in support of the Joint Force's plans and operations.

3. Protect the Cyber Domain with Allies and Partners: The Department will assist U.S. Allies and partners in building their cyber capacity and capability. It will expand avenues for potential cyber cooperation, conduct hunt forward operations to enhance cyber resiliency, and promote responsible state behavior by encouraging adherence to international law and recognized cyberspace norms.

4. Build Enduring Advantages in Cyberspace: The Department will optimize the organization, training, and equipping of Cyber Operations Forces and Service-retained cyber forces. Additionally, investments will be made in intelligence, science and technology, cybersecurity, and culture to enhance the enablers of cyberspace operations.

With a robust and integrated cyber capability, the Department aims to deter conflicts whenever possible and prevail when necessary. The 2023 DoD Cyber Strategy establishes a comprehensive framework for addressing cyber threats and safeguarding national security interests in an increasingly complex and contested cyber domain.