Report Recommends New Cyber Military Service by 2028 to Enhance National Security

The Center for Strategic and International Studies (CSIS) recently released a report suggesting the establishment of an independent military service branch dedicated to cyber operations by 2028. The proposed force would address longstanding structural challenges in recruiting, training, maintaining, and retaining skilled personnel necessary for effective cyber defense. According to the CSIS commission on Cyber Force Generation, the new service could be operational within a year following a presidential decision or legislative action.

The report outlines that this new branch could comprise approximately 30,000 individuals, including around 20,000 active-duty troops and warrant officers from various services, up to 5,000 National Guard members, and up to 6,000 civilians and contractors. This structure aims to streamline the recruitment process by focusing on specialized skills such as coding expertise rather than traditional military qualifications.

Mark Montgomery, who leads FDD’s cyber center and previously led the Cyberspace Solarium Commission, emphasized that current service structures have often obstructed success in building a robust cyber force. He noted that recruiting efforts rarely focus on technical skills like Python programming, which are essential for effective cybersecurity operations. Establishing a separate service would allow for a more focused recruitment strategy and enable cyber operators to develop their own budget and culture.

The proposal has been under debate among lawmakers for the past decade as they consider how best to enhance national security in an increasingly digital landscape. With ongoing discussions about the need for specialized cyber defense capabilities, this report provides a detailed framework for creating a dedicated cyber military service that could significantly bolster U.S. cybersecurity efforts.