JOINT BASE PEARL HARBOR-HICKAM, Hawaii -- The 747th Communications Squadron Mission Defense Team was created in 2017 as part of a larger Air Force initiative to handle threats from an ever evolving cyber landscape.
Air Force MDTs are an extra layer of fortification between networks and mission assets and help to transition communication squadrons to the operational arena.
“All our warfighting and support systems reside within the cyberspace domain, therefore it is imperative that we continue to innovate our cyber defenses,” said Airman 1st Class Austin Howell, 747th CS MDT technician. “Technology will continue to play a bigger and bigger role in the Air Force to accomplish the mission, so this mission set will be key in ensuring we can keep up and ensure mission assurance and success.”
Cyber Airmen use the cyberspace vulnerability assessment hunter weapon system to monitor the network traffic of an operation. The CVA/H consists of specialized network devices to aid in identifying cyber threats no matter the size.
Airmen must complete more than six months in defensive cyber operations training which includes both virtual and hands-on training involving digital asset investigation and completing the certified ethical hacker course.
The 747th CS MDT protects and defends the 15th Wing’s C-17 cyber assets, provides leadership with cyber situational awareness decisions, and supports Pacific Air Forces’ ability to synchronize cyber efforts across the theater.
As part of their involvement during Valiant Shield 20, the 747th CS MDT teamed up with the Hawaiian Air National Guard’s 154th MDT to host a live training event and have integrated as a single team to operate on the C-17 cyber terrain.
“It was phenomenal to work other like-minded Cyber warriors,” said Tech. Sgt. Carl Williams, 747th CS MDT non-commissioned officer in charge. “Working during a live mission involving an active network and live aircraft, it was the most realistic training possible.”
The two teams are looking to work together in the future to map out the cyber terrain to further fortify the F-22 fleet here.