U.S. Navy Activates First Information Warfare Squadron for Enhanced Cyber Capabilities

The U.S. Navy has activated its first information warfare squadron, marking a significant advancement in its approach to intelligence and cyber operations. Designated as Information Warfare Squadron Two, the squadron aims to enhance the capabilities of carrier strike group commanders by integrating intelligence and cyber expertise. This initiative is part of a broader pilot program approved in June, which will establish two information warfare squadrons over a 48-month period, with one located on the east coast and the other on the west coast.

The primary goal of these squadrons is to streamline intelligence and analysis processes by gathering personnel with specialized skills in information warfare from various naval commands. The command of IWRON Two has been entrusted to Capt. Jon O’Connor, who officially assumed his role during a ceremony held on December 5, 2023, in Norfolk, Virginia. The squadron comprises service members from multiple entities, including the Navy Information Operations Command, Naval Information Warfare Training Group, Navy Cyber Defense Operations Command, and the Fleet Intelligence Detachment DC.

This new structure is modeled after successful practices observed within destroyer squadrons and air wings. It uniquely consolidates various functions and responsibilities related to information warfare under a single commander, which is expected to enhance operational efficiency.

Vice Adm. Mike Vernazza, head of Naval Information Forces, emphasized the transformative nature of this initiative. He stated, “For too long, information warfare has been a collection of vital but often disparate capabilities. Today, we change that.” Vernazza noted that the IWRON construct represents a substantial leap forward, enabling the Navy to integrate and employ advanced information warfare capabilities as a unified force across diverse conflict scenarios. He added, “To get to outcomes we haven’t had, we need to do things we haven’t done. This is one of them.”

The establishment of a second information warfare squadron is anticipated on the West Coast within the next year, further expanding the Navy’s operational capabilities in this critical area. This strategic move illustrates the Navy’s commitment to modernizing its approach to information warfare, ensuring that it is well-equipped to meet contemporary challenges in an increasingly digital battlefield.