Administration questions military role in cyberspace

A bill in the House would authorize the Defense Department to conduct operations in cyberspace, including clandestine operations.

In a statement, the Obama administration opposed the provision, though without specifying any single aspect of it. 

Section 962 of the National Defense Authorization Act for Fiscal 2012 (H.R. 1540) states that DOD would have authority to carry out a clandestine operation in cyberspace in support of a military operation against a target located outside of the United States, or to defend against a cyberattack on a DOD asset.

The Obama administration's response to the measure, issued May 24, reads: "The administration agrees that appropriate military operations in cyberspace are a vital component of national security, but objects to Section 962. The administration has concerns about this provision and wants to work with Congress to ensure that any such legislation adds clarity and value to our efforts in cyberspace."