Misawa cyber security best in DoD

  • Published
  • By 35th Fighter Wing Public Affairs
MISAWA AIR BASE, Japan --  Misawa's cyber readiness was rated best in the Department of Defense following a Command Cyber Readiness Inspection that took place May 11-15.

The inspection tested the base's internal network, Information Assurance programs, traditional security, vulnerability management, Non-classified Internet Protocol Network, Secret Internet Protocol Network and Voice over Internet protocol.

"It was basically a test of our network security, both physical and digital," said 2nd Lt. Jacob Swink, 35th Communications Squadron plans and projects flight commander. Swink said CCRIs typically occur every three years for each installation.

The overall results were scored out of 100 percent, with 70 percent qualifying as a minimum passing score. The CCRI is generally regarded as highly demanding, with inspectors testing the actual physical security of locations and defense against hackers, among other aspects.

The secret network, known as SIPR, received a 90.3 percent "outstanding" rating and the non-classified network, or NIPR, wasn't far behind with an 89.2 percent "excellent" rating - both best in the DoD.

"This is a true testament to the determination of our Airmen," said Lt. Col. Reid Novotny, 35 CS commander. "At no point during this process did they take status quo for an answer.  They challenged every aspect of securing our network and came out top in the Department of Defense."

While the inspection occurred installation-wide, the bulk of the preparation fell on the 35 CS, which is made up of about 200 Airmen and civilians. Much of that preparation was routine communications work, such as applying patches for vulnerabilities throughout the network.

Inspectors lauded the preparedness of Misawa, and the ratings spoke for themselves.

"Our Airmen fully accept our fighter wing leadership challenge to maintain this pristine network," Novotny said. "We are all excited about having the increased emphasis of assuring our part of the 35th Fighter Wing mission."