Critical infrastructure, such as dams, bridges, tunnels, pipelines, etc., is a vital to the United States. On way to protect critical infrastructure is through sensors and controls to maintain components of infrastructure. Supervisory control and data acquisition systems, or SCADA systems, are remote industrial control systems responsible for controlling and monitoring infrastructure. In order to maintain operational readiness, the DoD relies on power grids, dams, pipelines and other critical infrastructure components that employ SCADA systems.
SCADA-based attacks on critical infrastructure present an emerging threat to the DoD and other U.S. government agencies. SCADA systems remain vulnerable to cyber-attacks, which may result in damage to equipment or severe injuries to nearby personnel. Disruption or total loss of critical infrastructure would severely degrade U.S. military capabilities and mission readiness. The protection of SCADA systems requires more attention and further research to preserve continuity of operations within the DoD.