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The Coast Guard has established a cybersecurity team to support for the following programs and assets within the service: 

  • Command, control, communications, computers, cyber, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance   
  • Fixed- and rotary-wing aircraft and unmanned aircraft systems 
  • Cutters: national security, offshore patrol, fast response, polar security, waterways commerce and Great Lakes icebreaker 
  • Boat acquisition 
  • In-service vessel sustainment 

As of August 2024

Cybersecurity

The Coast Guard's cybersecurity program supports command, control, communications, computers, cyber, intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance efforts across the portfolio of Coast Guard acquisition programs with the integration of measures and practices to protect information systems, operational technology, networks and data throughout the lifecycle of a program. These activities also safeguard the confidentiality, integrity and availability of sensitive information and critical assets within Coast Guard programs from cyber threats and attacks.

Why these activities?

Cybersecurity considerations play a crucial role in the development, procurement and maintenance of systems and technologies. Integrating cybersecurity practices into these processes mitigates vulnerabilities to adversaries and enhances resilience against cyber threats. The cybersecurity team collaborates with acquisition programs and the sustainment community to provide interoperable, standardized and efficient cybersecurity support. 

How are these activities implemented?

The team begins by identifying cybersecurity requirements early in the acquisition process. This entails understanding the specific cybersecurity needs and objectives for each acquisition effort and ensuring that appropriate security measures are included in the contractual agreements. Next, the team conducts comprehensive assessments to identify and evaluate cyber risks associated with acquired systems. This includes analyzing potential vulnerabilities, threats and impacts on system security and integrity.   

Based on the results of the risk assessments, the team implements security controls to mitigate identified risks. This may involve deploying technical safeguards, establishing security policies and procedures, and implementing best practices to protect systems and data. The team ensures compliance with cybersecurity standards and regulations by regularly monitoring and auditing security controls. This involves verifying that systems and processes adhere to applicable requirements and guidelines set forth by the Department of Defense, Department of Homeland Security, Coast Guard and industry.   

The team conducts ongoing vulnerability assessments, penetration tests and onsite security assessments to identify potential weaknesses in systems and applications. This involves scanning for vulnerabilities, analyzing security gaps and prioritizing remediation efforts to address the most critical risks.   

Finally, the program continuously monitors and updates security measures to address evolving threats and emerging vulnerabilities. This includes staying informed about the latest cybersecurity trends and technologies, ensuring patches are implemented and adapting security controls to mitigate new risks effectively. 

Program Benefits 

Risk mitigation  

By incorporating cybersecurity considerations early in the acquisition process, the Coast Guard can identify and mitigate potential risks associated with cyber threats and attacks. This proactive approach helps in reducing the likelihood and impact of security breaches and data compromises.  

Cost reduction  

Addressing cybersecurity requirements during the acquisition phase is often more cost-effective than retrofitting security measures onto existing systems. Upfront investment in cybersecurity can help avoid costly rework and ensure that security measures are integrated seamlessly into the design and development processes. 

Compliance assurance  

Acquisition programs are subject to regulatory requirements and industry standards related to cybersecurity. Integrating cybersecurity into the acquisition process ensures compliance with these regulations and standards, reducing the risk of non-compliance penalties and reputational damage.  

Enhanced trust and confidence 

Demonstrating a commitment to cybersecurity not only enhances the security posture of the acquired systems and assets, it also instills trust and confidence among stakeholders. 

Resilience and continuity  

Cybersecurity integration in acquisition programs strengthens the resilience of systems and operations against cyber threats and disruptions. By implementing robust security controls and contingency plans, the Coast Guard can enhance the continuity of critical functions and minimize the impact of cyber incidents on mission-critical operations.  

Interoperable cybersecurity support  

The ability of different cybersecurity tools and processes to work together seamlessly and effectively enables the sharing of threat intelligence, security alerts and other relevant data between the acquisition and sustainment teams. This enhances situational awareness and enables more comprehensive threat detection and response capabilities. Overall, interoperable cybersecurity support plays a critical role in enhancing cybersecurity posture by fostering collaboration, standardization and efficiency across different security environments. 

Innovation enablement  

An effective cyber strategy can establish a secure environment for innovation and experimentation by safeguarding intellectual property and sensitive information. It also promotes the exploration of new technologies and business models. Additionally, it entails fostering a culture of cybersecurity awareness and accountability throughout the organization, ensuring that all employees understand their role in maintaining a secure cyber environment. Ultimately, an effective cyber strategy is dynamic and adaptive, continuously evolving to address emerging threats and vulnerabilities in an increasingly complex and interconnected digital landscape.