Cyber Deterrence and Defense: National Priorities for 2026

Join 150+ intelligence and national security professionals on January 15, 8:00–10:00 am, at AUSA in Arlington, VA, for a discussion on the cyber priorities shaping 2026, including efforts to deter adversary activity, strengthen operational collaboration, and modernize defense against emerging threats. Please note: This event is closed to the press and will be held under the Chatham House Rule. 

This program will help intelligence and national security professionals understand where federal cyber efforts are headed in 2026, what threats are influencing strategic direction, and how evolving requirements like secure architecture, supply chain protection, and CMMC implementation affect mission and investment decisions.

Discussion topics:

• How agencies are strengthening cyber deterrence against malicious actors
• What cyber leaders identify as top threat trends and priority focus areas
• Updates on modernization, secure architecture, CMMC implementation, and supply chain protection
• The impact of AI/ML and emerging technologies on both adversary operations and defense readiness
• Where government most needs industry partnership and innovation

Speakers

Keynote Speakers

• 
  Katie Arrington (invited!)

  Performing the Duties of CIO

  Department of War

All Speakers

• 
  Chris Butera

  Acting Deputy Executive Assistant Director for the Cybersecurity Division

  CISA

• 
  Todd Hemmen

  Deputy Assistant Director, Cyber Capabilities Branch, Cyber Division

  FBI

• 
  Thomas Lind

  Senior Advisor

  ONCD

• 
  Cynthia Mendoza PhD

  Chief Engineer, Intelligence Solutions

  BAE Systems, Inc.

Moderator

• 
  LTG Stephen Fogarty USA (Ret.)

  Senior Executive Advisor

  Booz Allen

Agenda

Thursday, January 15 | 8:00-10:00 am

Location:
AUSA
2425 Wilson Blvd
Arlington, VA 22201

Agenda:
8:00-8:30 am - Registration & Networking Breakfast
8:30-9:00 am - Welcome & Opening Remarks
9:00-9:55 am  - Panel Discussion
9:55-10:00 am -  Closing Remarks

Travel & Parking:

• Metro accessible (Court House) on the Orange and Silver Lines

• Parking is available across the street 1482 N. Adams St. Rates are $8 for the first hour and $15 for the day.

Dress:
Business or Service Dress

Media Policy:
Closed to the press. Chatham House Rule

• 

  Community Champion

• 

  Patriot

• 

  Question Card

• 

  Registration