-Caveat Lector- Space Command Given Responsibility for Computer Defense, Attack; New "Joint Forces Command" to Support FEMA WASHINGTON (AP) -- In a sign that the Pentagon sees a growing threat from cyber-warfare, it is assigning to U.S. Space Command the responsibility for defending the military's computer networks, officials said today. Space Command, headed by Air Force Gen. Richard Myers and headquartered in Colorado Springs, Colo., also will develop cyber-attack capabilities starting in October 2000, a senior U.S. military officer said. The officer, who spoke on condition he not be identified, said the Pentagon envisions possible computer attacks on enemy air defense networks, for example, in times of war. "We want to explore that potential," he said. In the meantime, Space Command will focus on defending the military's computer networks from outside attack, the officer said. The Pentagon has become increasingly concerned recently at the vulnerability of its computers not only to private hackers but also to possible deliberate attack from enemy forces. These moves are part of a series of changes the Defense Department announced today in its Unified Command Plan, which spells out the roles, missions and structure of nine major combat commands. Under a 1986 law, the Pentagon is required to review the command plan at least every two years. President Clinton approved the 1999 plan on Sept. 29, although it was not disclosed publicly until today. Defense Secretary William Cohen was flying to Norfolk, Va., today to trumpet another change to the command structure -- the renaming of U.S. Atlantic Command to U.S. Joint Forces Command, headquartered in Norfolk. The change reflects an increased emphasis on joint training among the services. The Joint Forces Command also will have the added responsibility of running a special task force -- to be headed by a two-star general from the reserves -- to support civilian agencies such as the Federal Emergency Management Agency in managing the aftermath of an incident on U.S. territory involving a nuclear, chemical or biological weapon, a senior defense official. This official, also speaking on condition of anonymity, said the disaster-response capability was being established as a result of Clinton's May 1998 order to agencies to improve their ability to handle incidents involving weapons of mass destruction. "The magnitude of an ... (incident) like that is immense, and we just want to be prepared," the official said. Copyright 1999 The Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed. ======================= Robert F. Tatman Computer Help Desk Desktop & LAN Services Systems Department Philadelphia Newspapers, Inc. [EMAIL PROTECTED] 215.854.2729 215.854.2788 The contents of this message represent the opinion only of the writer, and may not be construed to indicate the endorsement of Knight-Ridder, Inc.; Philadelphia Newspapers, Inc.; The Philadelphia Inquirer; or the Philadelphia Daily News. "Artificial intelligence is no match for natural stupidity." DECLARATION & DISCLAIMER ========== CTRL is a discussion and informational exchange list. Proselyzting propagandic screeds are not allowed. Substance—not soapboxing! These are sordid matters and 'conspiracy theory', with its many half-truths, misdirections and outright frauds is used politically by different groups with major and minor effects spread throughout the spectrum of time and thought. That being said, CTRL gives no endorsement to the validity of posts, and always suggests to readers; be wary of what you read. CTRL gives no credeence to Holocaust denial and nazi's need not apply. Let us please be civil and as always, Caveat Lector. ======================================================================== Archives Available at: http://home.ease.lsoft.com/archives/CTRL.html http:[EMAIL PROTECTED]/ ======================================================================== To subscribe to Conspiracy Theory Research List[CTRL] send email: SUBSCRIBE CTRL [to:] [EMAIL PROTECTED] To UNsubscribe to Conspiracy Theory Research List[CTRL] send email: SIGNOFF CTRL [to:] [EMAIL PROTECTED] Om
