Cyber Force? Senator pushes to create service branch under the Army

Cyber Force Proposal: A New Military Branch on the Horizon

Senator Kirsten Gillibrand has proposed an amendment to the 2027 National Defense Authorization Act aiming to establish a new cyber-focused military service branch known as the “Cyber Force” under the purview of the Army, similar to how the Space Force and Marine Corps fall under the Air Force and Navy, respectively. Gillibrand argues that escalating cyber threats necessitate a fresh approach to ensure national security readiness. Both senatorial and congressional efforts have long supported this initiative, prompting the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine to study organizational models for cyber forces, although these findings remain unreleased. Various think tanks have also offered their perspective on what the Cyber Force structure could entail, suggesting potential personnel numbers and budgets. Despite some skepticism that placing the Cyber Force under the Army could dilute its priority, advocates maintain the importance of a dedicated offensive cyber force in the modern battlefield. The new branch proposal must navigate through multiple legislative phases and face uncertain administration support, particularly given the recent establishment of CYBERCOM 2.0 within the Pentagon.

Key Points:

Proposal by Sen. Kirsten Gillibrand to establish a “Cyber Force” under the Army in the National Defense Authorization Act.
Advocates argue that the growing cyber threats require a distinct service dedicated to cyber warfighting.
Previous studies commissioned by Congress on organizational models for cyber forces have yet to be released.
Think tanks and experts provide preliminary proposals suggesting around 10,000 personnel and a budget of $16.5 billion for the Cyber Force.
Opposition suggests placing a cyber-focused branch under the Army may compromise its primary missions.