#United States #Cybersecurity #Rochester #Pentagon #NDIA

The Pentagon Looks to Detroit for Cyber-Physical Security Solutions

As the Pentagon aims to rejuvenate America's defense industrial sector, a pivotal gathering of industry and defense leaders is set to take place in Detroit, Michigan. On June 16-17, 2026, the National Defense Industrial Association (NDIA) Michigan Chapter will host the 11th Annual Cyber-Physical Systems Security Summit (CPS3) at Oakland University's Oakland Center in Rochester, Michigan. This summit promises to be a significant event as it brings together the brightest minds and organizations focused on securing the nation's military capabilities in an increasingly connected world.

Context and Importance of the Summit

The resurgence of Detroit as a central figure in national defense is not merely symbolic; it holds substantial practical implications. Recent reports, including one from The Wall Street Journal, have cited discussions between high-ranking Pentagon officials and the leadership of Detroit's renowned automotive giants, General Motors and Ford, regarding the enhancement of their military production capacities. This move is intended to revitalize the city’s legacy as the Arsenal of Democracy, simultaneously addressing the modern intersection of military production and cybersecurity.

The CPS3 summit underscores the vital role of cybersecurity in the defense sector. Today's military systems are not only hardwares like tanks and jets but also include sophisticated software and networking capabilities that are integral to their operation. Consequently, these systems are vulnerable to cyber threats, making cybersecurity a priority in any discussion related to America’s defense strategies.

Keynote Speakers and Topics

The agenda for CPS3 2026 is rich with insightful presentations and panels led by industry leaders and experts. Among the keynote speakers, Dr. Ryan Hilger, Principal Program Manager at the U.S. Navy, is expected to open the first day with a talk centered around cyber resilience and his experiences acquiring unmanned systems in challenging environments.

John Doyle, Director of CTI Services at Palo Alto Networks Unit 42, will shed light on the increasing threat of Iranian state-sponsored cyberattacks against U.S. infrastructure. In a relevant discussion, Andy Sczygielski, a Special Agent from the Detroit FBI Cyber Task Force, will participate in a panel addressing foreign proximity threats that affect both military and civilian assets.

Rounding out the impressive list of speakers, Rachelle Putnam, VP and CIO of General Dynamics Land Systems, will present her insights on AI-driven warfare, while Dan Zajac of Ford Motor Company will discuss the risks associated with a Commercial Off-The-Shelf (COTS)-first policy in cyber-physical infrastructures.

Broader Themes and Issues Addressed

The summit isn’t just about presentations; it also features discussions on pressing topics like post-quantum cryptography for ground vehicle systems, firmware vulnerability assessments, and Army Research Office funding pathways. To engage attendees further, there will be a live Capture-the-Flag competition designed to test participants’ cybersecurity skills in real-world scenarios.

Given its focus on critical defense and cybersecurity issues, CPS3 is set to attract over 200 professionals from diverse sectors, including defense, automotive, government, and advanced manufacturing.

The Unique Position of Michigan

Dr. Dariusz Mikulski, CPS3 Co-Chair and Lead Research Scientist at the U.S. Army DEVCOM Ground Vehicle Systems Center, emphasized Michigan's unique position in this context. He stated, “Michigan sits at the center of automotive, defense, and advanced manufacturing in ways no other state can claim.” This perspective underlines Michigan's strategic importance in the conversation about securing connected systems that are increasingly becoming foundational to national defense.

A Call to Action

“The urgency for collaboration has never been more pertinent,” says Jennifer Tisdale, CPS3 Co-Chair and Director of NDIA Michigan. “The people who build these military systems and those who protect them must align their efforts now more than ever.”

Conclusion

The CPS3 2026 promises to be a vital forum, catalyzing crucial discussions and partnerships at the intersection of technology and national defense. As registrations are opened, it’s essential for stakeholders to secure their places and engage in these vital conversations that will shape the future of defense and cybersecurity. For more information, visit NDIA Michigan's official website.