A bipartisan group of former military leaders, industry executives, and civil leaders have launched the Commission on Cyber Force Generation to explore the creation of a dedicated U.S. Cyber Force. This initiative comes amid growing momentum within defense circles and a congressional mandate to study alternative organizational structures for the Defense Department’s cyber elements.
Addressing Implementation Hurdles
The commission’s primary focus is not to debate the merits of establishing a Cyber Force, but to address the practical challenges of implementation. „This Commission serves a distinct and essential role: it is not litigating the decision to create a Cyber Force but instead addressing the critical — and often overlooked — questions of implementation,” the announcement read. „Without this focused effort, any decision risks years of delay due to the well-known barriers to institutional change.”
A Partnership of Expertise
Founded through a collaboration between the Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) and the Cyberspace Solarium Commission 2.0, the commission brings together a diverse array of expertise. The 17 members include figures such as Lt. Gen. Ed Cardon, former Commanding General of Army Cyber Command, and Michael Sulmeyer, the Pentagon’s first Senate-confirmed cyber policy lead, offering a wealth of knowledge on military strategy, cybersecurity policy, and technological innovation.
Mandated by Congress
The commission’s work is further supported by the 2025 National Defense Authorization Act, which mandates a separate government study to explore potential organizational structures for the Defense Department’s cyber capabilities, including a Cyber Force. This congressional interest underscores the increasing importance of cyber defense and the need for innovative solutions.
Blueprint for a Cyber Force
Set to officially launch on Sept. 16, the commission will develop detailed plans for the organizational structure, core responsibilities, and necessary authorities of a Cyber Force. By involving a wide range of stakeholders, experts, and industry representatives, the commission aims to create a comprehensive and effective implementation strategy.
Momentum Builds for Digital Service
The concept of a Cyber Force has been circulating within defense circles for years, and the commission believes momentum is growing. Experts have speculated that a potential Trump administration could further push for the establishment of such a force.
Mitigating Cyber Risks
Matt Pearl, director of the Strategic Technologies Program at CSIS and co-director of the commission, emphasized the importance of preparing to mitigate risks associated with shortfalls in the DoD’s cyber readiness. The establishment of a Cyber Force could be a key step in ensuring the U.S. military has the necessary capabilities and expertise to operate effectively in both offensive and defensive cyber domains.
