Cyber and Electromagnetic Attacks

Cyber and electromagnetic attacks are hostile actions targeting critical infrastructure through digital network intrusion or directed electromagnetic energy designed to disrupt, degrade, or destroy electronic systems. Cyberattacks exploit software vulnerabilities, network access points, and authentication weaknesses to compromise data integrity or disable operations. Electromagnetic attacks—including tactical EMP weapons and high-power microwave devices—can disable unprotected broadband infrastructure, power systems, and communications networks without requiring network access.

The FY 2027 R&D memorandum identifies both cyber and electromagnetic threats as primary attack vectors requiring coordinated federal research investment and infrastructure hardening. BEAD Program cybersecurity requirements address digital threats by mandating that subgrantees maintain cybersecurity risk management plans aligned with the NIST Cybersecurity Framework and Executive Order 14028 standards for software supply chain security.

Electromagnetic hardening represents an emerging critical infrastructure protection requirement. Proposed BEAD Supporting Funds would enable broadband infrastructure investments meeting military-grade electromagnetic protection standards (MIL-STD-188-125) for network assets serving essential services and national security functions.