Army’s Call for Zero Trust Capabilities OF Tactical Cybersecurity
The U.S. Army is actively searching for zero-trust cybersecurity solutions OF Tactical Cybersecurity to enhance the security of its tactical network infrastructure. According to a request for information (RFI) published on Monday, the Army’s C5ISR Center is soliciting input from businesses that can provide zero-trust solutions capable of seamlessly integrating into existing military systems. These solutions, referred to as Tactical Data in Use Security (DUCES), are expected to function efficiently in denied, degraded, intermittent, or limited (DDIL) environments. The Army’s focus on zero trust comes in response to the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, which have rendered traditional security models ineffective.
The RFI highlights the unique challenge posed by the highly dynamic and adversarial-susceptible tactical environment in implementing zero-trust solutions that align with mission requirements. By adopting zero trust principles, the Army aims to ensure that data is secured at all levels, preventing unauthorized access and potential cyber intrusions. The need for a more robust security framework has grown urgent as the military increasingly relies on digital infrastructure for its operations.
Key Requirements and Security Challenges OF Tactical Cybersecurity
The Army’s latest solicitation is particularly focused on acquiring solutions that provide advanced encryption, anomaly detection, and secure communication protocols to safeguard military networks. Zero trust architecture follows the principle of “never trust, always verify,” assuming that networks are perpetually at risk of being compromised. This approach requires continuous authentication and verification of users attempting to access classified information through identity, credential, and access management (ICAM) processes.
In recent years, zero trust has gained significant traction as a cybersecurity strategy, especially as threats to critical infrastructure have become more prevalent. The Army’s move towards zero trust comes as part of a broader shift in military cybersecurity policies, recognizing that conventional perimeter-based security approaches are no longer sufficient. The service is looking for innovative solutions that not only secure data but also ensure seamless operations in unpredictable combat environments where network stability cannot be guaranteed.
Previous Efforts and Future Prospects
This is not the Army’s first attempt at ntegrating zero-trust security at the tactical edge. In the spring of last year, the military awarded a contract to cloud and edge-computing firm Akamai to develop prototype Tactical Cybersecurity ICAM solutions for its combat units. However, instead of issuing an RFI for this initiative, the Army leveraged the Software Acquisition Pathway and Other Transaction Authority (OTA) contracts, which enabled faster deployment of Akamai’s products to military personnel.
Unlike the previous procurement process, the current RFI indicates a more traditional approach to acquiring zero-trust solutions. Interested businesses have until noon on March 5 to submit their proposals. With cyber threats continuing to evolve, the Army’s pursuit of cutting-edge security technologies remains a top priority in safeguarding mission-critical data and ensuring operational resilience in the face of adversarial challenges.
