US Air Force Develops New Defensive Cyber Campaign Plan to Protect Critical Infrastructure

Executive Summary

In September 2025, the United States Air Force's 16th Air Force, the primary cyber unit, announced a new strategy aimed at harmonizing the efforts of different cyber defense teams. This strategy focuses on synchronizing the work of cybersecurity service providers (CSSPs) and cyber protection teams, particularly to safeguard critical infrastructure and networks. The plan, called "mission thread defense," emphasizes protecting critical operational sequences that span multiple systems and components, ensuring system resiliency and operational continuity even under cyberattacks or system failures. The approach addresses the increasing complexity of the cyber threat landscape, including threats like the Volt Typhoon malware allegedly linked to China, which targets US critical infrastructure by exploiting legitimate system tools. Recognizing that military bases depend on public utilities, the Air Force is collaborating with utility companies through cooperative agreements involving intelligence sharing, best practices, and sensor deployment to enhance defense capabilities. This initiative is part of a broader effort to improve endurance and integrity of mission-critical operations amid evolving cyber threats.

Situation

The Air Force's cyber defense missions have traditionally been divided between local defenders (CSSPs) and cyber protection teams, which operate like "cyber SWAT teams" to hunt and eliminate intrusions. Lt. Gen. Thomas Hensley, commander of the 16th Air Force, highlighted the need to harmonize these efforts to improve defense effectiveness. The mission thread defense concept emerged from efforts to create an overarching strategy that protects critical operational sequences, including hardware, software, and data dependencies. The increasing prevalence of Internet-of-Things devices and digitally maintained infrastructure has expanded the threat surface, exemplified by malware like Volt Typhoon, which uses legitimate tools for malicious purposes. The Air Force is also addressing vulnerabilities in public utilities that supply military bases, recognizing that generator power is only a temporary solution if utilities are compromised. Partnerships with public utilities include intelligence sharing and sensor deployment for persistent monitoring. The National Guard's authority and exercises also support these efforts to prepare for crisis scenarios and establish cooperative frameworks.

International Impact

The US Air Force's enhanced cyber defense strategy underscores the growing importance of protecting critical infrastructure against state-sponsored cyber threats, particularly from actors like China. This approach signals to international partners and adversaries alike the US commitment to cyber resilience and collaboration with private sector entities. Lt. Gen. Hensley emphasized the need to protect public utilities feeding military bases to maintain operational readiness. The strategy also reflects broader global concerns about cyber threats to infrastructure, encouraging allied nations to consider similar harmonized defense approaches. The focus on intelligence sharing and cooperative agreements may foster stronger international cyber defense partnerships.

Decision Maker Perspectives

United States Air Force: Developing a harmonized cyber defense plan to synchronize efforts between different cyber teams, focusing on protecting critical infrastructure and ensuring mission continuity under cyber threats.

Lt. Gen. Thomas Hensley: Advocates for mission thread defense to safeguard critical operational sequences and stresses the importance of protecting public utilities feeding military bases.

Source Perspectives

Breaking Defense: Provides detailed coverage of the Air Force's new cyber defense strategy, highlighting the evolving threat landscape and the need for harmonized defense efforts.

Kim Jong Un's Strategic Gamble on a Post-Western International Order

Executive Summary

In September 2025, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un made a significant strategic shift by aligning with an emerging multipolar world order rather than pursuing engagement with the United States and South Korea. His prominent presence at China's Victory Day military parade alongside leaders such as Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin symbolized North Korea's break from decades of seeking US recognition. Following the collapse of diplomacy after the 2019 Hanoi summit, Kim has distanced Pyongyang from Washington and Seoul, rejecting overtures and signaling a new foreign policy focused on sovereignty, legitimacy, and economic development through alliances with Russia, China, and the BRICS bloc. This shift reflects North Korea's pursuit of an anti-imperialist international community outside US leadership, aiming to secure regime security and prestige without denuclearization talks. The US approach of grouping adversaries into a single bloc has inadvertently strengthened North Korea's integration into this alternative order, making engagement with Washington counterproductive from Pyongyang's perspective.

Situation

Historically, North Korea sought international legitimacy primarily through normalization with the United States. However, the failure of Trump-Kim diplomacy in Hanoi and the geopolitical shifts following Russia's war in Ukraine have led Kim Jong Un to recalibrate his strategy. By leveraging tensions between major powers and joining anti-Western coalitions, North Korea aims to assert independence and gain prestige. The 2024 treaty with Russia and participation in BRICS-related events demonstrate Pyongyang's intent to embed itself in a multipolar order that challenges US dominance. US policies that attempt to isolate these countries as a bloc (CRINK) have instead fostered closer cooperation among them. Kim's September 2025 speech confirmed the end of denuclearization talks and normalization efforts, emphasizing anti-imperialist joint action. This new posture complicates prospects for diplomacy on the Korean Peninsula.

International Impact

North Korea's strategic pivot affects regional security dynamics in East Asia and challenges US-led diplomatic frameworks. The alignment with China, Russia, and BRICS signals a shift toward a fragmented global order with competing centers of power. This development may encourage other states to reconsider their alliances and diplomatic strategies. US leaders have expressed concern over the consolidation of an anti-Western bloc, while North Korea's partners view this as an opportunity to counterbalance US influence. The parade in Beijing and Kim's prominent role have been interpreted internationally as a symbolic endorsement of this new order, complicating denuclearization and peace efforts.

Decision Maker Perspectives

Kim Jong Un: Pursuing legitimacy and economic development through alignment with emerging multipolar powers, rejecting US-led diplomacy and denuclearization talks.

United States Government: Attempting to isolate North Korea and its allies as part of a broader adversarial bloc, which has inadvertently strengthened their cooperation.

Chinese and Russian Leadership: Supporting North Korea's integration into an alternative international order to counterbalance US influence.

Source Perspectives

Asia Times / Pacific Forum: Analyzes North Korea's strategic shift as a calculated gamble on a post-Western order, emphasizing the historical context and geopolitical implications.

Murder Investigation Following Discovery of Two Bodies in Boambee, NSW, Australia

Executive Summary

On September 26, 2025, homicide detectives in New South Wales, Australia, launched a murder investigation after the bodies of a man and a woman, both in their 60s, were found at a residence on Boambee Road in Boambee, near Coffs Harbour. Police were called to the scene at approximately 5:15 pm local time and confirmed the discovery of the two deceased individuals. The State Crime Command's Homicide Squad is actively investigating the circumstances surrounding the deaths. The incident has shocked the local community and prompted law enforcement to seek information from the public as they work to determine the cause and motive behind the deaths.

Situation

The discovery of the bodies triggered an immediate response from local police and homicide detectives. The investigation is in its early stages, with authorities focusing on forensic analysis, witness interviews, and gathering evidence from the scene. The identities of the deceased have not been publicly released pending family notification. Police have not disclosed any suspects or persons of interest at this time. The community in Boambee and surrounding areas remain concerned as the investigation continues. Authorities have urged anyone with relevant information to come forward to assist in solving the case.

International Impact

While the incident is a local criminal matter, it highlights ongoing concerns about violent crime and public safety in regional Australia. The case may receive attention in Australian national media and could influence discussions on crime prevention and law enforcement resources. No direct international impact is anticipated, but the investigation underscores the importance of effective policing and community cooperation in addressing serious crimes.

Decision Maker Perspectives

New South Wales Police Force: Conducting a thorough homicide investigation, seeking public assistance, and prioritizing the identification of suspects and motive.

Source Perspectives

9News Australia: Reporting factually on the discovery and ongoing investigation, emphasizing public safety and law enforcement efforts.