Cyber Edge

The United States "still has an edge" in cyberspace over other countries such as Russia and China, according to U.S. Strategic Command chief Gen. Robert Kehler. The general did not mention specific countries by name in his comments today, which came in response to a question from a reporter at a breakfast in Washington.

“I would just say this: There are a number of very sophisticated actors who operate in cyberspace. I believe that the United States still has an edge,” he said. Kehler said he cannot describe “how great that edge is,” except that in “some places” it is “quite an edge.” The United States has some “very, very good capabilities – both defensive capabilities and our ability to protect ourselves,” he said. Looking ahead, the question facing U.S. officials is how to invest, train and draw on expertise to retain the edge, Kehler said, noting U.S. Cyber Command needs more highly specialized personnel.

As defense officials continue working on the legal framework and doctrine for operating in cyberspace, they are considering whether “active defense” amounts to offense in cyberspace, Kehler said, adding he believes the answer to that question is no. He said such defense is analogous to actions a Navy captain might take to protect a ship at sea.