65 years of innovation: How DISA has transformed military communications
By DISA Historian Anne Armstrong
May 12, 2025
For 65 years, the Defense Information Systems Agency has been the backbone of military communications, ensuring that the U.S. armed forces stay connected, secure and mission ready. From supporting the Cold War to modernizing the digital battlefield, DISA’s legacy is one of innovation, adaptability and a commitment to supporting the Warfighter. What began in 1960 as the Defense Communications Agency has grown into a global leader in information technology, cybersecurity and network operations.
Unifying the force: The early years
In the 1960s, the Defense Department faced a growing challenge: a fragmented and inefficient communications landscape. The solution? A unified approach led by DCA. The agency pioneered common-user networks such as AUTOVON, AUTODIN and AUTOSEVOCOM, streamlining military voice and data communications. These advancements accelerated global information transfer and laid the foundation for future military networks.
DCA’s expertise extended beyond military operations. At the height of the Cold War, it established the direct hotline between the U.S. and Soviet Union, enabling a rapid line of communication between superpowers — an achievement that underscored the agency’s role in both national security and global diplomacy.
By 1971, DCA took on a critical national defense responsibility: securing the Minimum Essential Emergency Communications Network. This move solidified its role in nuclear command and control, ensuring the resilience of U.S. critical communications even in the face of potential crises.
Soon after, the agency managed ARPANET, the precursor to the modern internet, proving its forward-thinking approach to technology.
Adapting to a changing world
As conflicts evolved, so did DCA’s mission. During the Vietnam War, the agency expanded its capabilities to meet the growing demands of combat operations. But it was in 1990 during the Gulf War that the agency’s technological prowess truly shined. The Southwest Asia Telecommunications System provided robust, large-scale communications support, proving essential for battlefield coordination and success.
Recognizing the growing importance of information systems, DCA transitioned to DISA in 1991. This shift marked a broader combat support mission — one focused not just on communications but on managing and modernizing the DOD’s entire information ecosystem. The agency soon launched the Global Command and Control System, replacing outdated systems and ushering in a new era of military information management.
Forging ahead in the digital age
The turn of the millennium brought new challenges. Cyber warfare emerged as a top threat, and DISA took the lead in securing military networks. Following the 9/11 attacks, the agency secured emergency funding to enhance command and control capabilities, ensuring military readiness in the fight against terrorism.
With efficiency in mind, DISA streamlined data center operations, consolidating 194 data centers into just 16, and later reducing that number to six. At the same time, the agency modernized White House communications, expanded the Global Information Grid, and increased bandwidth capacity.
DISA also played a pivotal role in supporting operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, providing reliable, secure communications for forces deployed across vast and remote battlefields. Whether managing classified intelligence networks or deploying new cybersecurity measures, DISA met the growing needs of Warfighters.
Innovating for the future
Today, DISA is aligning its efforts with Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s core priorities of restoring the warrior ethos, rebuilding military capabilities, and reestablishing robust deterrence.
DISA's pioneering development of Thunderdome, a Zero Trust security framework, exemplifies this commitment. By mandating continuous verification for every user and device, regardless of location, Thunderdome proactively counters modern threats, ensuring the integrity of critical systems. This initiative directly bolsters the secretary’s priority of rebuilding military capabilities by securing the digital battle space.
Furthermore, DISA’s Joint Worldwide Intelligence Communications System management provides a critical, secure global network for intelligence sharing, supporting informed decision-making across the Defense Department and mission partners. This capability directly enhances military commanders' decision-making, bolstering their ability to respond effectively to threats and project power, a key element of restoring the warrior ethos and rebuilding military capabilities.
DISA's proactive adoption and deployment of advanced cybersecurity measures, including the use of secure collaboration tools like DOD365-J, play a vital role in establishing deterrence. These tools and other secure programs enhance the security and resilience of the department's communications networks, ensuring the integrity of critical information and maintaining operational readiness in the face of cyber threats.
A legacy of excellence
As DISA celebrates 65 years, its mission remains clear: Connect and protect the Warfighter, enable lethality and defend the United States. The agency’s ability to innovate, adapt and provide cutting-edge technology to our Warfighters has made it an indispensable force in U.S. national security.