Keeping the Air Force ahead of the curve

DYESS AFB, TX, UNITED STATES

10.24.2019

Story by Senior Airman Mercedes Bizzotto 

7th Bomb Wing

As Airmen, we are constant targets for cyber security attacks by criminals and adversaries. A breach could cost more than just money, it could also jeopardize mission success and endanger the lives of Airmen.

To stay ahead of the technological curve, the Air Force constantly updates software and hardware. At Dyess Air Force Base, Texas, the 7th Communications Squadron helped ensure mission success and protection by working with Kirtland AFB, New Mexico, to receive more than a thousand new laptops for squadrons around the base.

“Technology is ever changing,” said 2nd Lt. Chan Horton, 7th Communications Squadron cyber operations flight commander. “With these new laptops, we are able to help Airmen ensure mission readiness along with faster speeds to improve workflow.”

Horton also explained the laptops replace the oldest computers first. This ensures each squadron continues to stay updated with the latest technology to keep their work stations secured and operating optimally.
One squadron expected to be impacted by receiving the new laptops is the 77th Weapons Squadron. Not only does this unit produce Air Force weapons officers, but another part of their mission is ensuring the B-1B Lancer aircraft puts ‘bombs on targets’ via intel and tactics.

“Currently our computers are slow and not reaching their full capacity,” said Staff Sgt. Michael Maslowski, 77th WPS information protection with cyber security. “Running multiple programs at a time puts too much strain on the computers we currently use, so we are hoping the new laptops will be a big improvement for us and speed up our processes.”

With the new technology soon to be given to squadrons around the base, it is also crucial Airmen play their part in safeguarding their work stations against cyber attacks. As October is National Cybersecurity Awareness Month, many resources are available for Airmen and families to use. Some of these resources and information can be found at https://www.safcioa6.af.mil/Organizations/CISO-Homepage/NCSAM-2019/.

• Date Taken: 10.24.2019
• Date Posted: 10.24.2019 08:56
• Story ID: 349020
• Location: DYESS AFB, TX, US