U.S. Army Gen. Paul Nakasone became commander of U.S. Cyber Command (USCYBERCOM) and director of the National Security Agency (NSA) during a change-of-command ceremony held in Fort Meade, Maryland, on Friday.
Nakasone assumed command from retiring U.S. Navy Adm. Mike Rogers. Nakasone, who was promoted from lieutenant general to general prior to Friday’s ceremony, previously served as commander of U.S. Army Cyber Command and led USCYBERCOM Joint Task Force ARES, which countered ISIS cyber activities.
National Intelligence Director Dan Coats thanked Rogers for a lifetime of service in the Navy that “has contributed immeasurably to American—and allied—security.” Coats also welcomed Nakasone, saying his “experience and strong leadership will prove essential as we move into the next era of cyber operations.”
USCYBERCOM’s recent elevation to the nation’s 10th combatant command, and the opening of the NSA and USCYBERCOM Integrated Cyber Center (ICC) facility, were also recognized during Friday’s ceremony. The ICC facility is the first of six buildings being built at Fort Meade through 2028 and will focus exclusively on coordinating and countering cyber threats.
“NSA and USCYBERCOM’s greatest strength has always been our people,” Nakasone said. “Your agility and ability to solve the unsolvable challenges are more critical than ever, and perhaps our mission has never been more demanding. But we are up to this task, and I look forward to leading you in this new chapter of our history.”