In an era of escalating cyber threats, the United States is adopting a strategic approach to fortify its cybersecurity infrastructure. The urgency for stronger cybersecurity is partly driven by the global cost of cybercrime, which is projected to hit $20 trillion annually by 2026. This represents a significant increase from previous estimates, highlighting the rapidly growing scale of threats.

Recent cyber incidents, such as the BadPilot campaign and the activities of the Storm-2372 group, have further emphasized the need for robust cybersecurity measures. These sophisticated attacks, which include techniques like "device code phishing," demonstrate the evolving nature of cyber threats and the importance of adaptive defense strategies.

In response to these challenges, Pond is leveraging expertise in infrastructure security to deliver resilient solutions. The “power of proximity” is an emerging concept that seeks to partner local, regional, and national stakeholders to bolster U.S. cybersecurity resiliency and create more effective and responsive cybersecurity ecosystems.

Proximity as a Cybersecurity Strategy

The power of proximity in cybersecurity refers to the development of partnerships through clusters of cyber defense resources – military installations, research institutions, and private sector expertise – within close geographic locations. By strategically clustering resources, these organizations can streamline communication, improve information sharing, and enhance coordinated responses to cyber threats.

One of the most well-known examples of this strategy is Silicon Valley. In the mid-20th century, the clustering of military research institutions, private tech firms, and Stanford University created an ecosystem that transformed the global technology landscape. This same proximity-driven model is being applied in cybersecurity, equipping government, military, academic, and private sector partners with the resources to strengthen national defense strategies and rapid response capabilities.

Initiatives by the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) emphasized this approach. CISA's Joint Cyber Defense Collaborative (JCDC) was established in 2021 to enhance collaboration between the public and private sectors and improve information sharing. This initiative demonstrates how proximity-based strategies can foster stronger partnerships and more effective cybersecurity responses.

Aiken, South Carolina’s strategic location between existing military and education institutions provides direct access to top-tier cybersecurity infrastructure and military installations. With strong connections to government, industry, and academia in the Central Savannah River Area, Aiken benefits from the expertise and resources of institutions such as the University of South Carolina Aiken (USC Aiken) and Aiken Technical College.  In 2022, the National Security Agency designated USC Aiken as a Center of Excellence in Cybersecurity Defense (CAE-CD).

Proximity-Driven Cyber Defense: A Model for Stronger Security

The South Carolina National Guard’s Aiken Readiness Center and Cyber Integration Center will enhance the state’s collaborative cybersecurity hub in the southeast, bringing together the South Carolina Army National Guard (SCARNG), USC Aiken, the Savannah River National Laboratory (SRNL), and private industry leaders.

Designed to bolster cyber defense capabilities through joint training, innovative research, and real-world cyber response exercises, the new one-story facilities will be programmed to meet the administrative, logistical, training, and operational readiness needs of the SCARNG embedded in the USC Aiken campus ecosystem.

The design efforts require technical expertise from a multi-disciplined team of architects, engineers, and subject matter experts. The 43,000-square-foot Readiness Center has a goal of LEED silver certification with the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). The 25,580-square-foot Cyber Integration Center is registered with Green Globes with a goal of 2 Globes.

This initiative aligns with the broader efforts to strengthen state and national cybersecurity through localized collaboration. The proximity of SCARNG projects to critical cyber and advanced manufacturing innovation hubs – such as the U.S. Army Cyber Center of Excellence at Fort Eisenhower and SRNL’s Advanced Manufacturing Collaborative Facility at USC Aiken – is an extension of those government and industry investment efforts.

Designing for the National Guard's Role in Cybersecurity

The National Guard plays a crucial role in the nation’s cybersecurity efforts, with units specifically trained to detect, prevent, and respond to cyber threats at both state and national levels.

At the Aiken Readiness Center and Cyber Integration Center, SCARNG’s cyber teams will provide real-time threat monitoring and training to counter cyberattacks, provide cybersecurity training programs for military and civilian personnel, and support state and national emergency response efforts during cyber crises.

These clustered resources not only better prepare the next generation of cybersecurity professionals but also strengthen workforce development and national security. By strategically clustering experts from the military, academia, and public and private sectors, they are better equipped to create a more resilient cyber defense network.

Pond’s facility design reflects the latest trends in cybersecurity infrastructure, incorporating flexible spaces that can adapt to evolving threats and technologies. This approach aligns with recent Department of Defense (DoD) strategies, which emphasize the need for agile and resilient cyber defenses.

Challenges & Long-Term Considerations

While proximity-driven cybersecurity is a proven method to strengthen national defense, sustaining these initiatives requires overcoming key challenges – from data security to long-term funding.

One critical challenge is balancing security with collaboration. Classified military operations, private-sector research, manufacturing technologies, and academic initiatives must coexist without compromising sensitive data. Pond supports this balance by designing secure, scalable facilities with tailored access controls that allow stakeholders with varying security clearances to collaborate safely and efficiently.

Long-term sustainability is another major consideration, as maintaining these cyber hubs requires continuous funding and the ability to adapt to evolving threats. Pond strengthens its role in supporting national defense and critical infrastructure protection by integrating operational technology (OT) cybersecurity considerations and adaptable technology frameworks into the designs. This comprehensive approach produces facilities that not only meet current cybersecurity needs but are also resilient to the evolving threat landscape in both IT and OT environments.

Ultimately, the long-term impact of the South Carolina National Guard Cyber Integration and Readiness Centers will depend on maturing partnerships committed to collaboration, innovation, and capital investment.

Conclusion: The Future of Proximity-Driven Cybersecurity

As cyber threats continue to evolve, investment in proximity-based strategies can enhance cybersecurity resilience. By fostering collaboration among federal, state, military, academic, and private sector partners, the nation is building a robust cyber defense network capable of responding swiftly and effectively to emerging threats. Pond’s commitment to bolstering cyber infrastructure exemplifies this approach, developing facilities and frameworks for national cybersecurity that are both innovative and strategically located. The power of proximity is not just a concept, it is the future of cybersecurity for the University of South Carolina Aiken, the South Carolina National Guard, and their integrated partners. Learn more about Pond’s partnership with the National Guard and other valued clients.