Expert CMMC Consulting: Achieve Compliance & Secure DOD Contracts

CCA-Certified Guidance for the Defense Industrial Base

Navigate CMMC with Confidence

The Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) presents a critical compliance challenge for organizations within the Defense Industrial Base (DIB). Failure to meet these evolving Department of Defense (DoD) requirements can jeopardize your ability to win and maintain vital contracts. Strategic Defense provides expert, CCA-certified CMMC consulting services designed to guide your organization through every step of the compliance journey.

Leveraging decades of deep experience with NIST standards and DoD cybersecurity requirements, our team, which includes Certified CMMC Assessors (CCAs), demystifies the complexities of CMMC. We translate intricate regulations into actionable strategies, ensuring you implement effective, sustainable security practices.

Understanding the CMMC Landscape

CMMC builds upon foundational requirements like DFARS clause 252.204-7012, which mandated the implementation of NIST SP 800-171 controls for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). The CMMC framework, formalized through regulations like DFARS clause 252.204-7021 and the CMMC Final Rule (effective late 2024/early 2025 with phased implementation), introduces mandatory assessment requirements for DIB contractors. Depending on the information you handle, your organization will need to meet specific CMMC levels:

• CMMC Level 1 (Foundational Hygiene):

  • Applies to organizations handling Federal Contract Information (FCI) only.
  • Requires implementation of 15 specific controls derived from NIST SP 800-171.
  • Allows for annual self-assessment and affirmation by senior leadership.
  • Note: False attestations carry significant risk under the False Claims Act, potentially leading to severe penalties for both the company and individuals.

• CMMC Level 2 (Advanced Hygiene):

  • Applies to organizations handling CUI.
  • Requires full implementation and documentation of all 110 controls outlined in NIST SP 800-171 Rev 2.
  • Mandates triennial assessments conducted by accredited Certified 3rd Party Assessment Organizations (C3PAOs). These assessments are performed by highly qualified CCAs who undergo rigorous training, examination, background checks, and possess verified cybersecurity experience.

• CMMC Level 3 (Expert Hygiene):

  • Applies to organizations handling CUI associated with the highest priority DoD programs.
  • Requires implementation of all 110 controls from NIST SP 800-171 plus additional controls from NIST SP 800-172.
  • Mandates triennial government-led assessments by the Defense Industrial Base Cybersecurity Assessment Center (DIBCAC).

How Strategic Defense Empowers Your CMMC Journey

Partnering with Strategic Defense means working directly with CCA-certified professionals who possess intimate knowledge of the CMMC framework, assessment procedures, and NIST standards. Our tailored consulting services include:

• CMMC Scoping & Gap Analysis: Identifying the scope of your assessment and pinpointing deficiencies against required CMMC controls.
• Remediation Planning & Guidance: Developing practical, prioritized roadmaps to address identified gaps effectively and efficiently.
• Policy & Documentation Development: Assisting in creating the necessary policies, procedures, and System Security Plan (SSP) documentation required for assessment.
• Assessment Readiness Reviews: Simulating assessment activities to prepare your team and validate your implementation before the official C3PAO assessment.
• Secure Enclave Architecture & Implementation: Designing and deploying secure environments to protect CUI, potentially reducing the scope and complexity of your CMMC assessment.
• Ongoing Compliance Support: Providing continued guidance to help maintain your cybersecurity posture between assessments.

Benefits of Partnering with Strategic Defense:

• Unlock DOD Opportunities: Achieve and maintain the CMMC certification required to bid on and win lucrative DoD contracts.
• CCA-Certified Expertise: Gain confidence knowing your guidance comes from assessors certified under the CMMC program’s rigorous standards.
• Decades of NIST & Cybersecurity Experience: Leverage our deep understanding of the underlying frameworks (NIST SP 800-171, 800-53, etc.) for robust solutions.
• Practical, Actionable Guidance: Receive clear, effective recommendations tailored to your specific business environment, not just theoretical compliance checks.
• Reduced Risk & Enhanced Confidence: Minimize the risk of assessment failure, contract loss, and potential False Claims Act liabilities. Feel confident in your compliance posture.
• Efficient Path to Compliance: Avoid common pitfalls and streamline your efforts towards achieving CMMC certification.

Secure Your Future in the Defense Industrial Base.

Contact Strategic Defense today to learn how our CCA-certified experts can guide you to CMMC readiness.