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NIST Working on New Framework to Address AI-Enabled Cyberthreats
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Cyber AI Profile could be released within the next six months.

The National Institute of Standards and Technology is developing a framework designed to address difficulties cybersecurity executives face in combating cyberthreats enabled by artificial intelligence, Nextgov/FCW reported.

Speaking at the RSAC Conference on Monday, Kat Megas, NIST’s cybersecurity, privacy and AI program manager, explained that the Cyber AI Profile framework will encourage organizations to focus on risk reduction, defense strategies and improved privacy to counter cyber actors using AI, including large language models, to create new attack methods such as deepfakes and enhanced phishing.

“We are at a watershed moment where everybody’s talking about how artificial intelligence is helping both the defenders as well as the attackers,” Megas said.

NIST to Seek Public Comments on Draft Framework

Cyber AI Profile is based on NIST’s Cybersecurity Framework. The agency said many in the cybersecurity community recommended developing guidance based on the CSF to address the cybersecurity risks related to AI development and use.

According to Megas, NIST is working on a public draft of the Cyber AI Profile based on initial public workshop input and additional research. The draft will be made available to the public for comment. Depending on feedback, the agency could either develop a second draft or finalize the document, which is expected to be released within the next six months.

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DISA, USSTRATCOM Launch Electromagnetic Spectrum Software
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Military utilizing electromagnetic spectrum for warfare

The Defense Information Systems Agency and U.S. Strategic Command unveiled the Electromagnetic Battle Management – Joint Decision Support on April 21.

Leveraging the Electromagnetic Spectrum in Warfare

DISA said Monday the EMBM-J DS is a new software tool designed to enhance how the military manages the electromagnetic spectrum for tactical communications and operations. The system equips commanders from all military branches with a sophisticated planning capability that enables enhanced coordination of spectrum use. This safeguards friendly communications from interference with each other and prevents disruptions caused by enemy jamming.

The initial EMBM-J DS version provides commanders with several vital functions. It helps in analyzing missions by providing commanders an understanding of the electromagnetic spectrum’s possible uses and challenges. It also assists in plan development and evaluation by creating several options for using the spectrum. The tool has a war game feature where plans can be tested in a virtual environment to simulate real-world scenarios. Lastly, the EMBM-J DS enhances decision-making by providing vital information to commanders on the proper use of the electromagnetic spectrum.

“EMBM-J DS represents a significant step forward for Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operation Cells, enabling strategic and operational electromagnetic spectrum planning at both the Combatant Command plans and future operations planning levels,” said Air Force Maj. Gen. AnnMarie Anthony, director of the Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Center at USSTRATCOM.

“We’re committed to expanding the EMBM-J capability to meet evolving warfighter needs and address the complex challenges of Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations,” said Jason Martin, component acquisition executive at DISA.

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DARPA to Establish New Hub for Validating Quantum Innovations in Maryland
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Researchers develop quantum computing capabilities.

The Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency has forged new partnership with the state of Maryland to establish the Capital Quantum Benchmarking Hub. The planned facility will be used to test and evaluate quantum computing systems for commercial and national security applications, DARPA said Monday. 

Quantum Advancement

The Capital Quantum Benchmarking Hub will be located within the University of Maryland’s Applied Research Laboratory for Intelligence and Security, or ARLIS. Both DARPA and the government of Maryland committed to providing matching contributions of up to $100 million each over four years to support the hub and the larger Quantum Benchmarking Initiative, or QBI. 

“As part of QBI, we are building the world’s largest and most qualified independent quantum computing test and evaluation team so that we can rigorously test commercial approaches to determine what’s viable and what’s hype,” commented Joe Altepeter, program manager for QBI at DARPA. “The Capital Quantum Benchmarking Hub will provide an additional research and testing facility for our experts to evaluate the plans and systems of the quantum computing companies that progress through the QBI program.”

Launched in 2024, QBI aims to identify and validate quantum computing approaches that can lead to the development of an industrially useful quantum computer by 2033. 

Maryland Gov. Wes Moore added that the new facility will strengthen national security, create local jobs and position the state as a global capital for quantum technology. 

“Together, we will continue to drive innovation through durable partnerships that leave no one behind,” Moore stated.

State Collaborations to Develop Emerging Capabilities

In 2024, DARPA made a similar deal with the state of Illinois to establish the Quantum Proving Ground. Located at the Illinois Quantum and Microelectronics Park in Chicago, the research and development facility will also test and evaluate quantum technologies.

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FCC to Re-examine Spectrum Sharing Regulations
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Telescope utilized for spectrum sharing

The Federal Communications Commission has decided to review the rules on spectrum sharing between different types of satellite systems.

The FCC said the Notice of Proposed Rulemaking issued Monday aims to re-evaluate and modernize the decades-old spectrum sharing regime to allow for more intensive and efficient use of spectrum for space-based activities within the United States.

FCC Attempts to Advance Space Innovation

The review of the spectrum sharing rules seeks to enable advancements in space innovation while accelerating progress on spectrum crucial to national security and economic interests. The FCC aims to update spectrum sharing for satellite broadband and revise the current rules to achieve more efficient spectrum sharing between geostationary orbit, or GSO, and non-GSO satellite systems. The commission will examine power restrictions in the Ku- and Ka-bands supporting satellite broadband constellations in low Earth orbit.

Modern satellite systems deliver high-speed, low-latency broadband connectivity to consumers and businesses across the country, while also providing vital communications in rural locations and during emergencies. Despite bridging the digital divide, these satellites are limited by existing power restrictions and unable to fully provide enhanced coverage, capacity and signal quality.

Brendan Carr, chairman of the FCC, said in a statement that modern LEO satellite systems are governed by rules adopted over 30 years ago.

“The power limits developed in the 1990s hamper satellite broadband by degrading signal quality, reducing coverage, limiting capacity and making it harder to share spectrum with other satellite systems,” said Carr. “Back then, high-speed satellite broadband was considered the stuff of science fiction and the ability to share between satellite systems was primitive. Fast forward to today and breakthrough advances enable efficient spectrum use and sharing, making satellite broadband a real competitive option,” he continued.

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DHS Promotes Sarah Todd Green to Deputy Chief Procurement Officer
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DHS Promotes Sarah Todd Green to Deputy Chief Procurement Officer

The Department of Homeland Security has promoted its former acquisition policy and legislation branch executive director, Sarah Todd Green, to deputy chief procurement officer. Green, who shared her promotion in a LinkedIn post, already has more than four years of working experience in the DHS, according to her profile on the social media page.

Green’s role in her previous DHS post involved work in the department’s procurement modernization, including her leadership in launching the DHS Vendor Cyber Hygiene Assessment Framework, the Homeland Security Today website reported.

Work Experience at ICE, IRS

Before joining DHS, she had a stint of more than nine years at the U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement wherein she served last as deputy head of contract services overseeing more than 170 employees and over $2.5 billion of annual procurement. Her previous ICE roles included working as unit chief and chief of staff for Office of Acquisition Management.

Green started her career in government service as a contract specialist for the Internal Revenue Service, a post she held for three years. Previous to IRS, she served as senior office manager for LML Aviation for over four years and as operations manager for Eagle Flight Training for more than two years.

Green earned a master of science in government contracts degree from the George Washington University School of Business and a Bachelor in Business Administration diploma from the University of Texas at Tyler.

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Jim Carroll Named Professional Services Council CEO
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Jim Carroll, CEO of Professional Services Council

Jim Carroll, a seasoned policy strategist, was named CEO of the Professional Services Council, effective May 19. 

The trade association said Friday the former White House official will replace David Berteau, a two-time Wash100 Award winner, who is leaving after over nine years at the helm.

Who Is Jim Carroll?

Carroll is a government and industry veteran with over three decades of experience. He was unanimously confirmed as director of the White House Office of National Drug Control Policy, or ONDCP, in 2019. He served as the agency’s acting director and deputy director before his appointment. He spearheaded the government’s efforts against the national opioid crisis and he’s credited with the first year-over-year decline in overdose deaths in 30 years.

Prior to joining the PSC, Carroll co-founded and served as principal of DC Consulting for over four years. He was also a principal at CivicPoint and a partner at Frost Brown Todd, advising clients on government enforcement and compliance matters. The executive was also a board member at Opioid Clinical Management and NarcX, while also serving as principal and partner at Michael Best & Friedrich Consulting. 

Other positions Carroll held at the White House include deputy chief of staff, deputy assistant to the President and Senior White House Counsel. Before that, he spent over 10 years at Ford Motors as Washington counsel and director of corporate compliance. Carroll was also the deputy general counsel of the Department of Treasury and special assistant and associate counsel to the president.

“Jim Carroll’s exceptional track record in public service, corporate governance and policy advocacy makes him the ideal leader to guide PSC into its next chapter,” said Zachary Parker, chair of the PSC Board of Directors and president & CEO of DLH.

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South Dakota Officials to Take on New Roles at DHS
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DHS taps South Dakota officials

Two South Dakota public officials will leave their current roles and take on different positions at the Department of Homeland Security.

David Flute, secretary of the state’s Department of Tribal Relations, was appointed as DHS senior tribal adviser on Indian affairs, while Bureau of Information and Technology Commissioner Madhu Gottumukkala was named deputy director of the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency, SD.gov reported.

Flute and Gottumukkala will serve under DHS Secretary and Wash100 Award winner Kristi Noem, who previously was South Dakota’s governor. State Gov. Larry Rhoden said the two will add value to Noem’s efforts to protect homeland security as DHS head, noting Flute and Gottumukkala’s role in keeping South Dakota strong, safe and free.

Who Is David Flute?

Flute is a member of Sisseton-Wahpeton Oyate, a federally recognized tribe located on the Lake Traverse Reservation in northeast South Dakota. Noem appointed him as chairman of the Department of Tribal Relations in 2018 to foster relationships with the state’s nine tribal nations.

Who Is Madhu Gottumukkala?

Gottumukkala, a Dakota State University graduate, was appointed as Bureau of Information and Technology commissioner for the state in September. He previously served as senior director of business solutions at Sanford Health, chief technology officer at CallHealth and director of central engineering at Polycom.

He will remain as BIT commissioner until May 16.

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Find Out How Data Is Making S&T’s Societal Impacts Measurable
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Find Out How Data Is Making S&T’s Societal Impacts Measurable

Information analytics company Elsevier is building on a two-year collaboration with the National Science Foundation to jointly host a webinar highlighting how data is playing a crucial role in science and technology research.

Scheduled for this Wednesday, April 30, from 1 p.m. to 2 p.m., the session will explore topics like how data enhances research visibility, speed and resilience and the importance of both regional and international partnerships, Elsevier told ExecutiveGov. Interested parties can register here.

“We hope this webinar sparks new ideas and inspires other agencies and institutions to explore innovative ways to track, measure and amplify research impact,” the company shared. In addition to NSF, the Government-University-Industry-Philanthropy Research Roundtable is also helping to put on the event.

Elsevier-NSF Webinar Focus Areas & Purpose

The webinar, entitled “Data-Informed Decision-Making: Shaping the Future of Science & Technology,” is motivated by the fact that practitioners and civilians are looking for measurable societal impacts to S&T projects. Thus, data provides a legible and potentially actionable metric for tangible societal shifts as a result of S&T initiatives.

Participants will cover a range of topics, including funding strategies for such projects, location-centered data efforts and how to intentionally bring about societal change.

It is the organizations’ view that data-based approaches are making S&T more accessible, flexible and competitive and allowing for experimentation that draws resources and participation from across industries.

Who Are the Panelists?

For the discussion, two Elsevier executives will be joined by two NSF representatives. Ann Gabriel, senior vice president of global strategic networks and Randy Love, a senior solutions engineer, will represent Elsevier while Erwin Gianchandani, assistant director for Technology, Innovation and Partnerships, or TIP, and Grace Yuan, data analytics officer for TIP, will offer insights from NSF. 

TIP Portal

An additional focus of the webinar—and a key facet of Elsevier and NSF’s ongoing work together—is the Technology, Innovation and Partnership directorate’s portal, dubbed the TIP Portal. This database was constructed utilizing Elsevier’s Research Information Management System, a.k.a. RIMS platform. Tune into the webinar to learn about the impetus behind its development, what the creation process looked like and how it’s being used today.

Elsevier encourages audience members from the public and private sectors, academia, the philanthropic world and beyond to listen in on April 30 at 1 p.m. Sign up here!

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Pentagon Unveils Policy on Missile Defense Tech Acquisition
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DOD issuing a directive on missile defense system acquisition

The Department of Defense has released a directive establishing policy, assigning responsibilities and stipulating procedures for acquiring missile defense systems by the Missile Defense Agency.

The DOD directive, which took effect Friday, designates the director of MDA as the department’s executive agent for hypersonic defense.

Issued by the DOD Office of the Under Secretary of Defense for Research and Engineering, or USD R&E, the document describes the missile defense system, or MDS, as a major defense acquisition program comprised of elements that provide command and control, sensors and weapons that contribute to the Pentagon’s missile defense and defeat capabilities.

Responsibilities of DOD Officials

Under the directive, the USD R&E should conduct an independent technical risk assessment before the product development decision, or PDD, and production decision, or PD, for MDS elements; serve as chair of the Missile Defense Executive Board or MDEB; and provide developmental test and evaluation oversight of missile defense development.

The director of MDA will serve as the milestone decision authority; provide a briefing with recommendations to the USD R&E and the USD for Acquisition or Sustainment, or USD A&S, before any acquisition decision is made; and develop a program plan to address MDS-required capabilities and operational support demands in coordination with MDEB member organizations.

The document also outlines the responsibilities of USD A&S, the director of cost assessment and program evaluation, secretaries of military departments, the head of operational test and evaluation, and principal staff assistants and DOD component heads, among other officials.

MDS Acquisition System

The directive outlines several phases of the MDS acquisition system: material solution analysis, technology development, product development, and initial production and production.

According to the document, there are “off-ramps” from the tech development and product development phases for software-intensive, limited fielding, demonstration and prototype MDS elements. Elements that are cleared to use the off-ramps do not proceed to a PD and enter the production phase.

The DOD directive also presents a decision authority matrix for hardware-intensive, software-intensive, limited fielding, demonstration and prototype MDS elements falling under the phase transition decision points: technology development decision, PDD and PD.

The document was approved by Lloyd Austin, former secretary of defense and a three-time Wash100 awardee.

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Army Exhibits New Warfighting Capabilities at Project Convergence
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US Army seal

The U.S. Army’s Program Executive Office-Intelligence, Electronic Warfare and Sensors has demonstrated new capabilities at the joint Project Convergence Capstone 5, or PC-C5, experimentation event.

PEO IEW&S participated in Scenario A of PC-C5 and showcased several intelligence, electromagnetic warfare and surveillance products, the Army said Friday. The event allowed decision makers to evaluate, identify and refine requirements that advance future Army readiness.

Warfighting Capabilities to Advance Army Readiness

Among the technologies exhibited at PC-C5 is the Army Intelligence Data Platform, which organizes data for faster information processing and decision-making. PEO IEW&S also demonstrated the Common Sensor Payload, a technology that provides reconnaissance, surveillance, target acquisition and intelligence-gathering capabilities to the MQ-1C Gray Eagle uncrewed aircraft system. In addition, the office supported an experiment that used small balloons able to transmit data at high altitude to see the differences between platforms from multiple vendors.

The event highlighted key warfighting technologies, such as the Electronic Warfare Planning and Management Tool, which reportedly enables EW assets to operate, target and maneuver by synchronizing spectrum management operations across multiple domains. Meanwhile, the Transformation in Contact Mobile Node-Terrestrial system proved its ability to meet commanders’ priority information requirements while integrating with other sensors and systems. PC-C5 also showcased the Electronic Warfare Arsenal, a repository of information to enhance EW mission planning and execution capabilities.

Aside from the Army, the U.S. Air Force, the U.S. Space Force, the U.S. Navy, the U.S. Marine Corps and military forces from Australia, Canada, the United Kingdom, New Zealand and France took part in PC-C5.

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