The Pentagon’s New Era of CMMC Enforcement
The Department of Defense has started actively enforcing the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) requirements. This move is critical to securing the defense supply chain against increasingly sophisticated cyber threats.
Why Readiness Gaps Persist
Despite extensive outreach, many small and mid-size contractors still struggle to meet the demanding CMMC standards. Common issues include:
- Limited cybersecurity expertise and resources
- Incomplete documentation of cybersecurity practices
- Challenges in implementing all required NIST SP 800-171 controls
What This Means for Your Contracting Opportunities
Without proper certification and compliance:
- Your company risks exclusion from current and future DoD contracts
- Negative SPRS (Supplier Performance Risk System) scores may impact your standing
- Sensitive defense information could be at greater risk for cyberattacks
Taking Action Now
To bridge these readiness gaps, contractors should:
- Conduct a thorough CMMC readiness assessment
- Prioritize remediation of deficient cybersecurity practices
- Engage experienced compliance partners for guidance and implementation
Conclusion
The Pentagon’s enforcement signals that cybersecurity compliance is non-negotiable. For DoD contractors and subcontractors, rapid and thoughtful action is essential to protect contracts and contribute to national security.
To learn how to get your company compliant and audit-ready, visit RoadMap IT’s CMMC page.