State Launches Defense Manufacturing Cybersecurity Program

Connecticut is launching a new initiative to strengthen the state’s defense manufacturing competitiveness.

The Department of Economic and Community Development’s Office of Manufacturing announced the Connecticut Defense Cybersecure Program Oct. 29.

The program will provide grants, technical support, and other assistance to strengthen manufacturers’ cybersecurity capabilities.

The resources are designed to help protect sensitive information and improve competitiveness.

The state will fund the program with an initial $2 million investment.

Industrial Base

Connecticut is home to more than 900 defense manufacturers.

The state secured $38.4 billion in Department of Defense prime contracts in fiscal 2025, ranking fourth nationally.

“We’re strengthening one of the nation’s premier defense manufacturing ecosystems.”

Gov. Ned Lamont

“Our manufacturers need to be able to protect sensitive information, respond to evolving cybersecurity threats, and meet the expectations of the customers they serve,” said Gov. Ned Lamont.

“Through DCP, we’re strengthening one of the nation’s premier defense manufacturing ecosystems while helping create opportunities for continued innovation, investment and job growth across our state.”

The state created the program in response to evolving DOD cybersecurity requirements for defense contractors.

Cybersecurity Requirements

The Phase II rollout of third-party CMMC Level 2 assessments remains suspended.

However, manufacturers still face cybersecurity and self-assessment requirements that can affect their eligibility for defense contracts.

“We want to ensure our manufacturers have the tools, expertise and support they need.”

DECD’s Kirti Patel

DCP participants will have access to tiered financial resources and technical support.

They will also be able to access qualified cybersecurity service providers to help navigate the requirements.

“As cybersecurity requirements continue to evolve, we want to ensure our manufacturers have the tools, expertise and support they need to prepare for CMMC Level 2 requirements,” said DECD deputy commissioner and chief manufacturing officer Kirti Patel.

Helping Manufacturers

DCP was developed with input from the Connecticut Defense Cybersecurity Advisory Council.

The council includes local government representatives, national cybersecurity experts, Aerospace Components Manufacturers, and the Naval Maritime Consortium.

“Keeping pace with today’s evolving cybersecurity requirements can be a significant challenge, especially for small and midsized companies,” said Aerospace Components Manufacturers executive director Jessica Taylor.

“Keeping pace with today’s evolving cybersecurity requirements can be a significant challenge.”

ACM’s Jessica Taylor

“DCP is an important step in helping Connecticut’s defense suppliers strengthen their cyber readiness and remain competitive,” said Naval Maritime Consortium executive director Walker Potts.

The Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology will administer the program.

Defense manufacturers can learn more about the program here.

Cybersecurity service providers can apply here to join the Qualified Provider Network.