In response to escalating cyber threats, Maryland has launched the Maryland Cybersecurity Task Force, a collaborative initiative aimed at bolstering the state’s cyber defenses. The task force includes members from the Maryland Air National Guard, Maryland Army National Guard, and Maryland Defense Force, all of whom bring specialized skills in defensive cyber operations. “The Maryland Military Department has units and personnel that are trained in and specialize in defensive cyber operations,” said Maryland Air National Guard Col. Thomas Herster, the J6 for Maryland National Guard Joint Staff. These service members will perform various functions such as cyber threat hunting, attack analysis, cybersecurity engineering, and penetration testing to protect the state’s digital infrastructure.
Governor Wes Moore announced the task force’s establishment on January 8th, emphasizing the need for a whole-of-government approach to counter cyber threats. The Maryland Cybersecurity Task Force will draw on the expertise of the Maryland Military Department’s cyber professionals, who will serve in a state active duty status. Additionally, the task force includes a multidisciplinary team of cybersecurity specialists, policymakers, and representatives from the Maryland Department of Information Technology and Maryland Department of Emergency Management (MDEM). “Through statewide coordination and support to local jurisdictions, MDEM ensures cyber preparedness, fostering a resilient network of stakeholders ready to respond to and recover from disruptions,” stated Russ Strickland, Secretary of Emergency Management.
State Defense Forces across the country, including the Maryland Defense Force, play a crucial role in supporting National Guard cyber defense units. These State Defense Forces actively recruit IT specialists who bring their professional expertise to enhance state and national cybersecurity efforts. By integrating these civilian professionals into their ranks, State Defense Forces can provide critical support in defending against cyber threats, ensuring both state and national digital security. This collaboration underscores the vital role that State Defense Forces play in augmenting National Guard capabilities and maintaining robust cyber defenses.
Facing the frontlines of cyber defense, Maryland steps up with the Maryland Cybersecurity Task Force. Members of the Maryland Air National Guard, Maryland Army National Guard, and Maryland Defense Force are ready to use their skills to support this new security effort. “The Maryland Military Department has units and personnel that are trained in and specialize in defensive cyber operations,” said Maryland Air National Guard Col. Thomas Herster, the J6 for Maryland National Guard Joint Staff. “The mission tasks of these units and the specialized skills of our service members directly correlate to the work tasks of the Maryland Cybersecurity Task Force.” Rest assured, as they say, they’re #AlwaysReadyAlwaysThere Get the full story: https://news.maryland.gov/…/md-military-department…/
Md. Military Department task force established to counter cyber threats in the state