Compliance Standards

The U.S. military and its extensive network of contractors make up one of the most critical infrastructures in the country. Any threat to Department of Defense (DoD) information, systems, or resources can put national security at risk, both at home and abroad.

To reduce these risks, the DoD requires strict security standards across its workforce and contractor base. DoD information assurance awareness training is a foundational requirement designed to ensure personnel understand how to protect sensitive DoD information from cyber threats, misuse, and human error. This article explains what the training involves, who must complete it, and why it matters.

For Department of Defense (DoD) entities and contractors, annual information awareness training plays a critical role in protecting sensitive data and reducing cybersecurity risks across critical infrastructure. As cyber threats continue to evolve, untrained personnel remain one of the most common causes of security incidents.

Failing to address risks to sensitive information, especially within systems supporting national defense—can lead to data breaches, operational disruptions, and serious national security consequences. Awareness training helps ensure employees understand their security responsibilities, recognize threats, and respond appropriately. Read on to learn why annual training is essential and how it supports DoD compliance requirements.

While tragedies in the aerospace industry are rare, they pose a significant risk to national security. To address these threats, the industry has implemented rigorous cybersecurity standards designed specifically for aerospace systems.
One of the most recognized of these is the Aerospace Cybersecurity Standard, formally known as NAS 9933. Understanding this standard is essential for aerospace organizations, contractors, and suppliers, as it guides how sensitive data and critical systems are protected.

CMMC compliance is becoming a contract requirement for Department of Defense (DoD) contractors—and the timeline is approaching faster than many organizations expect. While most DoD contracts today still require compliance with DFARS 252.204-7012 and NIST SP 800-171, upcoming awards may require formal certification under the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) framework.

With the phased CMMC implementation beginning November 10, 2025, certification requirements will be introduced through contract clauses rather than blanket enforcement. As a result, small and mid-sized defense contractors must begin planning for CMMC compliance now to avoid delays, lost opportunities, or disqualification once certification becomes a condition of award.