The Army is unleashing a cyber storm, deploying a cutting-edge expeditionary battalion to tackle unprecedented cyber warfare challenges.
At a Glance
- The Army is initiating a new cyber battalion to bolster cyber warfare capabilities, addressing both offensive and defensive strategies.
- Training adjustments aim to reduce the need for on-the-job instruction, improving readiness.
- Efforts include special pay, retention bonuses, and five-year tours to enhance workforce stability.
- Additional cyber teams are being constructed, with two already reaching initial operating capability.
Laying the Cyber Groundwork
The United States Army is strategically bolstering its arsenal with the introduction of a new expeditionary battalion, marking its most agile cyber move yet. By deploying advanced cyber teams, the Army aims to enhance its defense posture and offensive maneuvers. Such swift adaptation highlights its commitment to integrating cybersecurity measures and modern warfare techniques.
Improving readiness for the Army’s cyber mission force remains paramount. Historically, personnel needed considerable on-the-job training, which impacted mission readiness. However, advancements in training methodologies are reducing this and training is now commencing earlier. This shift not only accelerates preparedness but strengthens foundational operations commanded by Cybercom.
Innovations in Cyber Team Dynamics
Gen. Timothy Haugh from Cybercom said there are positive trends in readiness and attributed this to revised training protocols. The Army Cyber Command is focusing its energies on team-oriented training rather than individualized sessions. “Some of the other things that Gen. Haugh has been talking about, like training to the left, so that more of the soldiers in the CMF – when they come out of the schoolhouse – don’t require as much or any additional training in order to perform their work role,” Lt. Gen. Maria Barrett said.
Amid increased cyber threats, the Army has activated two cyber teams, and four more will come online over the next five years. As Cybercom seeks to add 14 new teams, the Army is tasked with constructing new operational units, two of which have already achieved initial operating capability.
Expanding Cyber Horizons
The 11th Cyber Battalion is a pivotal structure that provides tactical cyber strategies and operations. Comprising over 300 personnel and five expeditionary cyber teams (ECTs), it leads cyber and electronic warfare initiatives. The activation of new ECTs is paving the way for the upcoming 12th Cyber Battalion, highlighting the Army’s innovative approach.
“11th Cyber is a tactical cyber unit and that is a first-of-its-kind ability or effect that the Army has to call on,” Capt. Sean Thorpe said.
Real-world engagements, such as the Ukrainian conflict, have equipped the Army with invaluable lessons, guiding the strategic and operational evolution of newly activated ECTs.
