117th Communications Flight contributes to cyber defense

BIRMINGHAM, AL, UNITED STATES

03.13.2020

Story by Staff Sgt. James Bentley 

117th Air Refueling Wing

BIRMINGHAM, Ala. –
The Air National Guard forms a critical component in cyber defense, and the 117th Communications Flight at Sumpter Smith Joint National Guard Base is constantly updating itself to stay vigilant on the front lines of cyber warfare.
Cyber threats, such as ransomware, infrastructure attacks, phishing or election hacking, are all examples of the “new norm” in the realm of cyber warfare and the 117 ARW Communications Flight is uniquely trained and equipped to deal with these threats.
Staff Sgt. Bradley Watkins, cyber transport specialist explains that the goal is to implement cyber security defensive measures that help protect the privacy and security of both our mission and people.
“One of the most important realizations coming out of all these attacks is that military members can be brought in to provide guidance on and create preventative cyber security implementation measures,” said Watkins “When Air National Guard members stop attacks before they can cause damage, it is a big win. The 117th Communications Flight stays informed on the latest tactics, techniques, and procedures as they relate to cyber security to ensure we remain agile enough to respond to the latest threats.”
The National Guard component of U.S. cyber defense works as a response to emerging threats as well as a preventative measure.
This article used information from “National Guard cyber teams key asset in cyber defense” at https://www.af.mil/News/Article-Display/Article/2018168/national-guard-cyber-teams-key-asset-in-cyber-defense/

• Date Taken: 03.13.2020
• Date Posted: 05.19.2020 19:38
• Story ID: 365201
• Location: BIRMINGHAM, AL, US