Language and Messaging Guide for United States Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM)

Introduction

This guide outlines key aspects of how to communicate effectively with United States Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM). It provides instructions on referring to the command, understanding their preferred phrases and terminology, and adapting our communication style to resonate with their unique culture and priorities.

Command Overview

United States Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) is a functional unified combatant command tasked with the cyberspace operations of the United States Armed Forces. USCYBERCOM’s mission is to direct, synchronize, and coordinate cyberspace planning and operations to defend and advance national interests in collaboration with domestic and international partners. It operates globally in real time against determined and capable adversaries by integrating military, intelligence, and information technology capabilities.

Communication Style

Brief summary of USCYBERCOM’s communication style, including its key components:

• Tone: Formal and Technical – This section expands on the command’s preferred tone, providing examples and scenarios where each might be most effectively used.
• Perspective: Mixed – Guides the advised narrative perspective, including when and how to shift perspectives if necessary for different types of communications.
• Language Precision: - Strategies for adjusting language precision based on the communication’s purpose, audience, and context.
• Visual Representation: Advice on selecting and utilizing imagery and visuals that reflect the command’s ethos and operational integrity, including dos and don’ts to maintain respect and accuracy.

Preferred Terminology and Phrases

• Cyberspace Operations: The employment of cyberspace capabilities where the primary purpose is to achieve objectives in or through cyberspace.
• Persistent Engagement: The concept of maintaining constant contact with adversaries in cyberspace to deter, delay, or disrupt malicious activities.
• Integrated Deterrence: The use of a mix of capabilities across domains, including cyberspace, to deter adversary actions.
• Defend Forward: To disrupt or halt malicious cyber activity at its source, including activity that falls below the level of armed conflict.
• Joint Force: A general term for the components of USCYBERCOM, which includes elements from different branches of the U.S. military.

Key Snippets from Official Documents

• Posture Statement of General Timothy D. Haugh 2024: “Advantage in cyberspace goes to the entity postured to understand and anticipate changes in the environment and act on fleeting opportunities with speed, scale, agility, and precision.”

Leadership Language

• Commander Gen. Timothy D. Haugh, USAF: Frequently discusses “persistent engagement” and the importance of “defend forward” strategies.
• Deputy Commander LTG William J. Hartman, USA: Known for emphasizing “integrated deterrence” and the need for “joint operations.”
• Chief of Staff Maj. Gen. Bradley L. Pyburn, USAF: Focuses on “readiness” and “innovation” in communications.
• Senior Enlisted Leader Chief Master Sergeant Kenneth M. Bruce, USAF: Advocates for the welfare and effective utilization of USCYBERCOM personnel.

Adapting Your Communication

• When referring to the command: Use the full title “United States Cyber Command” or the acronym “USCYBERCOM.”
• Incorporating preferred terminology: Employ terms like “persistent engagement” and “defend forward” to align with command’s strategic language.

• Emulating the command’s tone: Adopt a formal and technical tone when discussing operations or strategies.

• Contextual Messaging: Develop messages that resonate with specific audiences by conveying the importance of cybersecurity in national defense.
• Engagement Techniques: Employ clear, precise language and authoritative data when engaging with media to communicate USCYBERCOM’s activities.
• Conflict-Sensitive Communication: Ensure communications are tactful and respect operational security, especially during sensitive operations.

Conclusion

Using targeted language and messaging strategies when engaging with United States Cyber Command is crucial. Adopting these guidelines can enhance communication effectiveness and foster stronger relationships to support the command’s mission of defending and advancing national interests in cyberspace.

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This guide is a dynamic document and may be updated as USCYBERCOM’s strategic priorities and leadership evolve. Always refer to the latest version for the most current guidance.