DISA's new charter reflects changes in technology

by Renee Hatcher
Office of Strategic Communications and Public Affairs
March 7, 2022 

Deputy Secretary of Defense Kathleen Hicks recently approved a new DISA charter that incorporates changes to the agency’s mission, organization, roles and responsibilities, and authorities.

“Our strategic plan and resources are aligned to the charter,” said Lt. Gen. Robert Skinner, DISA director and JFHQ-DODIN commander. “We will continue to ensure that our work traces directly to our mission that is identified in this foundational document.”

DISA’s charter, laid out in DOD directive 5105.19, was last updated in 2006 and now reflects changes in information technology, information systems, and cyberspace capabilities made during the last 16 years.

“The charter is a foundational reference document that defines what we do and makes sure everyone is on the same page,” said Dr. Michelle Goddard-Kim, DISA’s strategic planner. “As taxpayers, the public has a right to see how government organizations are executing their missions. The charter serves as a type of contract for the American people and mission partners to see how DOD defines DISA’s mission, roles and responsibilities.”

This revision to the charter contains updated content, terms, and language in use today for DISA. Key updates include the boilerplate to strengthen authority, direction, and control arrangements; the director’s dual-hat assignment as Joint Force Headquarters-Department of Defense Information Network commander; reform initiatives; cybersecurity; and cloud computing.

“The charter validates our ongoing and future missions,” Skinner said. “Designated as a Combat Support Agency, DISA continues to play a crucial role in the cybersecurity and defense of DOD networks and information systems in support of the warfighter.”