U.S. Cyber Command's status is raised to form a unified combatant command
NewsAugust 18, 2017
WASHINGTON. Department of Defense (DoD) officials initiated the process to elevate the U.S. Cyber Command to a unified combatant command. The decision, at the direction of the President, is consistent with Title 10 of U.S. Code, section 167b, and the recommendation of the Secretary of Defense.
"This new Unified Combatant Command will strengthen our cyberspace operations and create more opportunities to improve our Nation’s defense. The elevation of United States Cyber Command demonstrates our increased resolve against cyberspace threats and will help reassure our allies and partners and deter our adversaries," President Donald J. Trump said in a statement released by the White House.
The elevation will mark a significant evolution in the way the department organizes to execute cyberspace missions and comes as a direct result of the efforts of the entire DoD cyber workforce, officials say. Elevation of U.S. Cyber Command from its previous status as a sub-unified command under U.S. Strategic Command reflects the growing centrality of cyberspace to U.S. national security.
"United States Cyber Command’s elevation will also help streamline command and control of time-sensitive cyberspace operations by consolidating them under a single commander with authorities commensurate with the importance of such operations," He adds in the statement. "Elevation will also ensure that critical cyberspace operations are adequately funded."
The White House statement also said that the Secretary of Defense is currently looking into the possibility of "separating United States Cyber Command from the National Security Agency." However, a recommendation on the matter will be made at a later date.
The U.S. Cyber Command was established in 2009.
