U.S. ARMY CREATING A ‘SPECIAL FORCES’ UNIT OF CYBER WARRIORS

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David Maxwell Comment: Is embedding a small team in each BCT the right way to go? Are we treating them just as do other “enablers?” Are we using old think here? Will that lead to treatment of cyber as an afterthought? Or will cyber be stove piped and only a handful of “cyber special forces” or “cyber special operators” will focus on cyber tasks. What happens when we need to conduct cyber as the main effort and the support from a BCT is not necessary? In the future we might be leading with cyber (offensively and defensively).

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According to the Army, the ultimate goal would be to send small teams or “cells” of cyber specialists to be embedded inside brigade combat teams. These teams will better help commanders face challenges in theater.

Major General John B. Morris Jr. is leading the charge of integrating the Army’s cyber special operators into a cohesive fighting force. The military is skilled at leadership and teamwork. With the right training, Army cyber operators can be a potent force to defend our nation.

By LTC Steven Howard, U.S. Army (Ret.)

Contributor, InCyberDefense

The Army has recently begun transitioning its electronic warfare soldiers to the Army’s cyber branch. Effective October 1, 2018, the electronic warfare force, known as a 29 series career field, will move to the 17 series career field.

The move comes after Army leaders recognized operational gaps between planners and maneuver commanders.

In addition, the best Army cyber performers will be groomed to move into the cyber mission force. They will conduct strategic-level operations at U.S. Cyber Command.

Preparing Cyber Warriors for Combat

According to the Army, the ultimate goal would be to send small teams or “cells” of cyber specialists to be embedded inside brigade combat teams. These teams will better help commanders face challenges in theater.

Initial cyber training will take place at Ft. Gordon, Georgia, followed by advanced training in numerous locations and multiple units throughout the Army.

Major General John B. Morris Jr. is leading the charge of integrating the Army’s cyber special operators into a cohesive fighting force. The military is skilled at leadership and teamwork. With the right training, Army cyber operators can be a potent force to defend our nation.