Trump’s new $900 billion Pentagon funding plan includes ‘enhanced cybersecurity protections’ for Cyber Command - here’s what we know
The 2026 National Defense Authorization Act has been signed into law
· TechRadarNews By Ellen Jennings-Trace published 22 December 2025
(Image credit: Getty Images) Share Share by:
Share this article 0 Join the conversation Follow us Add us as a preferred source on Google
- President Trump has signed the National Defense Authorization Act into law
- The bill includes new telecoms and cybersecurity provisions
- The dual-hat leadership structure between NSA and Cyber Command has been protected
The new 2026 National Defense Authorization Act has been passed into law, and included in the over $900 billion worth of new Pentagon funding are some significant changes for cybersecurity and telecoms.
Cybersecurity requirements have been introduced for telecommunications and mobile phones used by senior US government officials, as well as any personnel that perform sensitive national security functions.
Within 90 days from the passing of the bill, those affected will be provided with mobile phones that have ‘enhanced cybersecurity protections’ including encryption, continuous monitoring capabilities, and persistent identifier obfuscation.
Save up to 68% on identity theft protection for TechRadar readers!
TechRadar editors praise Aura's upfront pricing and simplicity. Aura also includes a password manager, VPN, and antivirus to make its security solution an even more compelling deal.
Preferred partner (What does this mean?)
Dual hat structure
The bill also takes steps to create a ‘risk-based framework’ that details the cybersecurity and physical security standards for machine learning and AI technologies procured by the department.
Security guidance must also be developed to help defend AI against sabotage or technology theft from state-sponsored adversaries.
This will sit alongside the establishment of comprehensive cybersecurity and governance policies for all machine learning and AI systems used within the Pentagon.
The dual-hat nature of the leadership structure has also been effectively protected between the National Security Agency and the US Cyber Command, as Pentagon funds are prohibited from use in ways that may “reduce or diminish the responsibilities, authorities, or organizational oversight of the Commander of United States Cyber Command.”
Are you a pro? Subscribe to our newsletter
Sign up to the TechRadar Pro newsletter to get all the top news, opinion, features and guidance your business needs to succeed!
Contact me with news and offers from other Future brandsReceive email from us on behalf of our trusted partners or sponsors