Defending DOD’s networks will remain the number one cyber priority for the Pentagon, according to testimony deliveredlast week by Eric Rosenbach, Assistant Secretary of Defense for Homeland Defense & Global Security.  The second priority will be combatting the top 2% of national cyber threats, while “cyber offense” ranks third – at least in terms of public pronouncements.   Rosenbach said in light of the evolving nature of the threat, DOD is committed to a comprehensive, whole-of-government cyber strategy to deter attacks.  While these priorities may seem a little behind-the-curve given the inevitability of attacks and industry-stressed resiliency requirements, DOD’s statements are nevertheless useful for contractors that work with the agency on cyber solutions.  If, for example, the top two priorities are on deterrence and damage control, contractors need to emphasize those portions of their solutions.  Cyber is the number 1, 2 & 3 federal IT priority right now and Rosenbach told Congress that the agency has “made a conscious decision” to invest in solutions.  Companies working with the Pentagon on cyber should take note of the new plan and reach out to their DOD customers for further discussions.