Still dual-hatted, or not? We’ve been reporting on this issue for years, but it is hard to tell from this statement.
The White HouseOffice of the Press SecretaryFor Immediate ReleaseAugust 18, 2017Statement by President Donald J. Trump on the Elevation of Cyber Command
I have directed that United States Cyber Command be elevated to the status of a Unified Combatant Command focused on cyberspace operations.
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.
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. Elevation will also ensure that critical cyberspace operations are adequately funded.
In connection with this elevation, the Secretary of Defense is examining the possibility of separating United States Cyber Command from the National Security Agency. He will announce recommendations on this matter at a later date.
Through United States Cyber Command, we will tackle our cyberspace challenges in coordination with like-minded allies and partners as we strive to respond rapidly to evolving cyberspace security threats and opportunities globally.
Christopher Folk
This certainly raises a number of questions, not the least of which is whether or not this is merely rhetoric or if a split from the NSA is actually forthcoming. A number of pundits have called for just such an action to elevate the perceived and actual importance of all things cyber; however, implementing this could prove tricky. While this will undoubtedly increase Cyber Commands status and overall presence, removing CyberCom from the NSA is going to suffer from short term labor shortages and determinations as to which agency staff members will move to (currently many of the NSA/Cybercom roles are dual-staffed and one person may have duties across each). Suffice it to say, that I am definitely in favor of elevating the status of cyber and this may be a good first move, but it is not enough. The importance and relevance of cyber across the US and internationally means these changes need to be executed expeditiously to provide the tools, resources, and direct line to the White House that is needed to ensure rapid responses and quick deployment of both offensive and defensive operations.