Dual-hat NSA, Cybercom leadership role to be assessed by nominee

DefenseScoop reports that U.S. Indo-Pacific Command Deputy Chief Army Lt. Gen. Joshua Rudd, who has been nominated to lead both the National Security Agency and the Cyber Command, has declared to assess the effectiveness and efficiency of the dual-hat role upon confirmation to the post.

While the joint leadership of both agencies has enabled "great support" to the U.S.'s warfighters, ongoing evaluations on the potency of such an approach are still necessary, said Rudd in his confirmation hearing before the Senate Armed Services Committee. In his written statements prior to the hearing, Rudd emphasized his commitment to ensuring the united effort between the NSA and Cybercom, while clarifying the need for a Cyber Force.

"Before considering a major reorganization like creating a new service, I would want to understand the results of the ongoing studies mandated by Congress and work with this committee to determine the best path forward for the force," said Rudd.