Which aspect of the global supply chain poses operational security risks for the DoD?

The selection regarding the usage of fiber optic cables as an aspect of the global supply chain that poses operational security risks for the Department of Defense is grounded in the vulnerabilities associated with communication technologies. Fiber optic cables, while being crucial for high-speed data transmission, can be susceptible to interception and tampering.

Often deployed for critical defense and intelligence communications, the integrity and security of the data passing through these cables is paramount. If compromised, they could allow adversaries to gain access to sensitive information, disrupt communications, or manipulate data transmitted across networks. This risk escalates when considering the global nature of supply chains, where components, technologies, and services may be sourced from diverse and potentially less secure environments.

In the context of operational security, vulnerabilities in the communication channels, represented here by fiber optic cables, can lead to significant consequences, such as intelligence breaches or operational failures during missions. Thus, ensuring the security of these communication infrastructures is vital for maintaining the overall integrity of defense operations.