President Donald Trump signed off on Thursday on America’s National Cyber Strategy with maritime featuring prominently in the 40-page document.
“The National Cyber Strategy demonstrates my commitment to strengthening America’s cybersecurity capabilities and securing America from cyber threats. It is a call to action for all Americans and our great companies to take the necessary steps to enhance our national cybersecurity,” Trump wrote in the introduction to the document.
The document states that maritime cybersecurity is of “particular concern” because lost or delayed shipments can result in strategic economic disruptions and potential spillover effects on downstream industries.
“Given the criticality of maritime transportation to the United States and global economy and the minimal risk-reduction investments to protect against cyber exploitation made thus far, the United States will move quickly to clarify maritime cybersecurity roles and responsibilities; promote enhanced mechanisms for international coordination and information sharing; and accelerate the development of next-generation cyber-resilient maritime infrastructure. The United States will assure the uninterrupted transport of goods in the face of all threats that can hold this inherently international infrastructure at risk through cyber means,” the document stated.