Defense Secretary Robert Gates and Homeland Security Secretary Janet Napolitano have signed a memorandum of agreement to align the capabilities resident in their respective organizations in order to protect better the nation’s critical civilian and military computer networks. “[E]ffective immediately, we are building a new framework between our departments to enhance operational coordination and joint program planning,” they wrote in a joint release last week. They added, “This structure is designed to put the full weight of our combined capabilities and expertise behind every action taken to protect our vital cyber networks, without altering the authorities or oversight of our separate, but complementary missions.” They said these efforts are in full adherence to US laws and regulation and reflect a “strong commitment” to protecting civil liberties and privacy. (Memorandum text)
The use of a military counter-drone laser on the southwest border this week—which prompted the Federal Aviation Administration to abruptly close the airspace over El Paso, Texas—will be a “case study” on the complex web of authorities needed to employ such weapons near civilian areas and the consequences of agencies…
