## Cyber Command Eyes Modernization with External Review **U.S. Cyber Command** is undergoing a significant review process spearheaded by its newly appointed leader, Army Gen. Joshua Rudd. The initiative involves internal assessments and external consultations to optimize the command's structure and operational effectiveness. Rudd has engaged **MITRE**, a prominent research organization, to conduct an extensive review of the command. This evaluation will likely scrutinize **Cyber Command's** acquisition model and examine the "service-like authorities" granted by Congress, which allow it to manage and equip personnel without being an independent military branch. The findings from **MITRE** are expected to contribute to Rudd's ongoing 90-day review of the command. This practice is common for newly appointed senior military leaders, particularly combatant commanders. ### Internal Assessments and "Quick Wins" Rudd also convened a group of senior leaders within **Cyber Command** with special operations experience to conduct an internal study focused on identifying "quick wins" for implementation. However, one official described the outcome of this internal study as a "nothingburger." ### CYBERCOM 2.0 and Acquisition Concerns The modernization efforts align with the Pentagon's strategy to address challenges in fielding and retaining cyber warriors through a new force generation strategy known as "CYBERCOM 2.0." A key component of this strategy is the creation of a Cyber Innovation Warfare Center. Concerns have been raised that **MITRE's** dissection of the command's buying processes might overshadow core aspects of the **CYBERCOM 2.0** strategy. However, officials have emphasized that **MITRE's** work is intended to be complementary to the existing blueprint. Rudd testified before the Senate Armed Services Committee about the importance of **CYBERCOM 2.0**, noting that it "will enhance our ability to work more closely with industry and academia to develop, acquire and operationalize cutting edge capabilities." ### Timing and Scrutiny The timing of these reviews is considered unusual, especially given that previous **Cyber Command** chiefs typically established their goals before seeking external assistance. This has led to speculation about the level of scrutiny on Rudd, considering his background and the circumstances surrounding his predecessor's departure. One former senior cyber official suggested that Rudd's approach of seeking diverse opinions early on is beneficial, given his background. They recommended bringing in experienced advisors to provide insights into past practices and potential pitfalls. Neither **Cyber Command** nor **MITRE** provided comments on the matter.