Cybersecurity

NSA wants NatSec users to mask location data

The spy agency is advising users of Defense Department and National Security Systems to take steps to mask their location data on mobile devices and computers.

Modernization

Understanding the DOD's ban on some China-made telecom gear

FCW spoke with Alejandro Sarria and Jason Workmaster, two attorneys specializing in federal contracting to get some clarity on the fast approaching government ban on contracting with companies that use certain telecom equipment and services.

Modernization

DOD 'on schedule' for August JEDI announcement

The Defense Department's CIO Dana Deasy said a re-announcement of the embattled cloud contract should come by the end of August.

Modernization

Could a new academy solve the AI talent problem?

The National Security Commission on Artificial Intelligence is recommending a new academy to train feds to take on federal agency jobs involving emerging technologies including AI.

Cybersecurity

Navy shifts to zero trust mindset to deal with COVID-related telework

Yesterday's buzzword has become today's security imperative, according to the department's CISO.

Modernization

Pentagon issues contract guidance on China tech ban

The Defense Department outlines how it will implement the upcoming government ban on doing business with companies that use certain Chinese telecommunications equipment.

People

Culture, leadership are keys to continuing DOD telework post-COVID

Peter Ranks, the Defense Department's deputy chief information officer for information enterprise, said continued leadership on flexible telework policies were needed to create a "new normal."

People

Senate passes 2021 NDAA with veto-proof majority

The Senate passed its version of the 2021 National Defense Authorization Act and the bill now heads to conference.

Cybersecurity

DOD's cyber chief to exit this month

The Pentagon’s lead cybersecurity expert, Jack Wilmer, is leaving his post for an industry role at the end of July.

People

House-passed NDAA expands paid leave benefit to excluded feds

Title 38 employees, such as workers at the Transportation Security Administration, Department of Veterans Affairs, and Federal Aviation Administration were not included in the bill that established the benefit.

Modernization

Army re-orgs tech directorate

The Army has a new strategic operations directorate under the department's management office, an organization said to be a "precursor" to the upcoming CIO reorganization.

Cybersecurity

House passes NDAA with TikTok ban

The House of Representatives passed a defense bill for 2021 that authorizes $731.6 billion in defense spending, includes cyber, workforce, acquisition provisions and a ban on the popular social media app Tik Tok on government equipment.

Digital Government

House panel advances FY2021 DOD spending bill

The House Appropriations Committee passed its 2021 defense spending bill along party lines, 30-22, including funding for COVID-19 procurement and support for cyber workforce recruitment.

Cybersecurity

NDAA process is now loaded with Solarium cyber amendments

Much of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission's agenda is being pushed into this year's defense authorization process, including its crown jewel idea of a national cyber director.

People

DOD CMO boasts $11B in savings as Congress moves to cut position

The Defense Department has saved $11 billion in the past two years thanks to reform efforts, said Lisa Hershman, DOD's chief management officer.

Cybersecurity

Deadline looms for contractors to ditch banned Chinese equipment

A broad federal prohibition on contractors that use gear from a host of Chinese tech makers goes into effect in mid-August.

Modernization

WH CTO to take over DOD's top research role

Defense Secretary Mark Esper names U.S. CTO Michael Kratsios to be acting undersecretary of defense for research and engineering after Michael Griffin's resignation from that post took effect July 10.

Acquisition

DIU issues $13 million in drone contracts to fight COVID

The Defense Department's innovation arm has fast-tracked $13.4 million in small-drone contracts under the Defense Production Act.

People

How DOD's executive exodus could affect tech modernization

Back-to-back resignations raise concerns about how things will be run without permanent leadership in key areas from policy to tech development.

Acquisition

Defense contractors pressure White House, DOD for more pandemic stimulus funds

Major defense company executives are pushing the White House and Pentagon for additional financial relief due to increased costs caused by the coronavirus pandemic.