U.S. Marine Corps opens new War Room to boost cyber defence capabilities

Designed to enable faster, more coordinated responses, the War Room addresses limitations previously caused by CPTs focusing mainly on on-site missions. It integrates essential capabilities to improve communication and collaboration across cyber teams.

“It’s all about war fighting,” said Col. Jamel Neville, commanding officer of MCCYWG. “The War Room enables our Marines and civilians to be ready for responding to threats with speed and agility.”

One of the key features of the War Room is its ability to provide advanced analytical support from the rear, giving teams deeper, real-time insight into the cyber battlespace. This capacity enhances the proactive identification and response to threats, increasing operational effectiveness.

The War Room was developed using the Department of Defense’s DOTMLPF-P framework, which helped identify capability gaps and shape a solution tailored to the needs of the CPTs. The result was achieved at a reduced cost by reusing existing equipment and infrastructure.

“In true Marine Corps fashion, we are doing more with less,” said Brittany Callaway, a communications officer with MCCYWG. “By repurposing equipment we were able start executing today while we wait to move into a new building.”

The facility also includes an operational network that supports seamless communication and data sharing between teams and support units. This improves information flow and speeds up coordinated responses to cyber incidents.

Far from operating in isolation, the War Room is a vital part of a wider cyber defence structure linked directly to Marine Corps Forces Cyberspace Command (MARFORCYBER). Its capabilities are also designed to connect with U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM), contributing to both national-level defence and offensive cyber missions.

This interconnected approach strengthens national security by enabling MARFORCYBER to respond swiftly and efficiently to threats, while sharing intelligence with the broader Department of Defense. It also supports the protection of critical infrastructure and the stability of the national cyber domain.