DISA

Introduction: History, Definition, and Mission

The Defense Information Systems Agency (DISA) is a United States Department of Defense (DoD) combat support agency. Headquartered at Fort Meade, Maryland, DISA provides, operates, and assures command and control, information sharing capabilities, and a globally accessible enterprise information infrastructure. It directly supports joint warfighters, national-level leaders, and other mission and coalition partners across the full spectrum of military operations.

Historically, DISA evolved from predecessor organizations focused on military communications. Its core mission is to serve as the provider of GIG/DISN (Global Information Grid / DoD Information Network) capabilities, IT services, and cybersecurity solutions to the DoD. The agency's goal is to connect and protect the warfighter in cyberspace, ensuring information superiority and enabling effective command and control for U.S. military forces worldwide.

Core Functions and Capabilities

DISA delivers a wide array of essential information technology and communication services. Key functions include:

• Network Services: Engineering, operating, and managing the DODIN, the military's global network infrastructure, providing secure voice, video, and data services.
• Cybersecurity: Defending the DODIN against cyber threats, providing cybersecurity tools and services, and managing identity and access controls.
• Enterprise Services: Offering department-wide services such as enterprise email, collaboration tools, cloud computing options (like Stratus), mobility services, and unified capabilities.
• Computing Services: Providing data center hosting, cloud services, and infrastructure solutions to support DoD applications and data storage needs.
• Command and Control (C2): Delivering and sustaining critical C2 systems and applications that enable military commanders to plan, direct, and control operations.
• Spectrum Management: Managing the electromagnetic spectrum for the DoD to ensure access for vital communication and sensor systems.

Distinctive Services

A key distinctive aspect of DISA is its role as the operator and defender of the DODIN. This encompasses the vast network infrastructure that connects all DoD elements globally. Furthermore, DISA functions as a Combat Support Agency, directly integrating its services into military operations and planning, which differentiates it from typical IT providers. They also manage large-scale Enterprise Services designed for the unique security and operational requirements of the entire Department of Defense.

Relationship with Other Entities

DISA is an integral component of the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD). It works closely with and provides services to:

• The Office of the Secretary of Defense
• The Joint Staff
• The Combatant Commands (e.g., INDOPACOM, EUCOM, CENTCOM)
• The Military Services (Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, Space Force)
• Other Defense Agencies and DoD Field Activities
• Allied and Coalition partners, facilitating interoperability.

DISA on Social Media

DISA maintains an active presence on several social media platforms:

• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/USDISA
• Twitter: https://x.com/DISADOD
• LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/disa
• YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/USDISA

Summary

In essence, DISA serves as the central IT and communications backbone for the U.S. Department of Defense. Through its website, disa.mil, the agency communicates its mission, capabilities, and news. It provides critical network infrastructure, cybersecurity defense, enterprise-level IT services, and command and control support, enabling global military operations and ensuring information dominance for the U.S. warfighter and national leaders. It is a vital organization connecting and protecting the DoD's information enterprise.