In a move aimed at fortifying the cybersecurity of U.S. ports and maritime cybersecurity, the Biden-Harris Administration has announced a comprehensive initiative. This initiative, set to be formalized through an Executive Order on February 22, encompasses a series of strategic steps designed to bolster cybersecurity in the USA, reinforce supply chains, and revitalize domestic manufacturing capacity.
The significance of cybersecurity in the USA cannot be overstated. As the backbone of the nation’s Marine Transportation System (MTS), these ports facilitate over $5.4 trillion in economic activity annually and sustain employment for more than 31 million Americans.
Recognizing the integral role of maritime cybersecurity, the administration is committed to safeguarding these vital assets against evolving cyber threats.
Biden-Harris Administration and Cybersecurity in the USA
Central to the Biden-Harris Administration’s plan is the reinforcement of the Department of Homeland Security’s authority to address cybersecurity challenges within the maritime domain.
The executive order empowers the U.S. coast guard to take proactive measures against cyber threats, including the imposition of cybersecurity standards to secure port networks and systems. Notably, this entails mandatory reporting of cyber incidents endangering maritime infrastructure.
In a bid to mitigate vulnerabilities, the U.S. coast guard will issue a Maritime Security Directive focusing on cyber risk management for ship-to-shore cranes manufactured by the People’s Republic of China.
This directive mandates actions to secure cranes and associated IT and OT systems, aligning with the broader objective of enhancing the digital resilience of maritime infrastructure.
Furthermore, the administration is advancing regulatory frameworks to strengthen cybersecurity in the Marine Transportation System. Through a Notice of Proposed Rulemaking, minimum cybersecurity requirements will be established to mitigate unauthorized access attempts targeting MTS control systems. These efforts highlights a commitment to leveraging regulatory mechanisms in safeguarding critical infrastructure from cyber threats.
Investments for the USA Cybersecurity Plan
In parallel, the administration is undertaking substantial investments for the USA cybersecurity plan, totaling over $20 billion over the next five years.
This funding, allocated through initiatives like the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, aims to revitalize domestic manufacturing capacity for port cranes.
PACECO Corp., a subsidiary of Mitsui E&S Co., Ltd (Japan), is positioned to lead this endeavor, marking a significant milestone in onshoring crane production after three decades.
The announcement coincides with the Biden-Harris Administration’s ongoing efforts to showcase the impacts of its Investing in America agenda.
By prioritizing cybersecurity in USA ports and the maritime sector, the administration highlights its commitment to bolstering national security, revitalizing domestic industries, and fortifying supply chains.
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