June 7, 2023

Air Force Lt. Gen. Timothy Haugh has been appointed as the new commander of the United States Cyber Command and the head of the National Security Agency (NSA). This leadership change, initiated by President Joe Biden, follows the impending resignation of Gen. Nakasone and aims to ensure a smooth transition in the crucial cyber defense operations.

Alongside Lt. Gen. Haugh’s appointment, Army Maj. Gen. William Hartman has been designated as the second in command at Cyber Command, solidifying the new leadership structure. Furthermore, the NSA’s deputy director, George Barnes, is expected to retire by the end of this year, indicating a significant reshaping of the agency’s top-level personnel.

Lt. Gen. Haugh’s selection comes as no surprise, given his close collaboration with Gen. Nakasone in the past. This shared experience is expected to facilitate continuity and a seamless transition within the Cyber Command. As the threat landscape in cyberspace evolves, the command’s aggressive “defend forward” strategy, previously commanded by Gen. Nakasone, will continue to play a crucial role in safeguarding national security.

However, the incoming administration may face challenges, such as the extension of monitoring authority under Section 702 of the Foreign Intelligence Surveillance Act. This authority is currently under scrutiny in Congress as it approaches expiration, potentially impacting the future operations of Cyber Command and the NSA.

Additionally, the confirmation process for Lt. Gen. Haugh and other potential nominees might encounter delays due to the legislative holds placed by Sen. Tommy Tuberville on military appointments.

The sources for this piece include an article in Axios.