VerbatimParliament, as it happens

Defence: Cybersecurity

Asked by James CartlidgeConservativeMinistry of DefenceTabled Answered 12 January 2026UIN 103362

The question

To ask the Secretary of State for Defence, whether the CyberEM Command has established initial operating capability.

Answered by Al Carns

Initial Operating Capability (IOC) for the Defence Cyber and Electromagnetic Force (DCEMF) was achieved on 1 December 2025. This followed a public announcement by the Commander, Cyber and Specialist Operations Command (CSOC), on 27 November 2025. IOC marks the establishment of the Force Headquarters and the integration of core Cyber and Electromagnetic (CyEM) functions within CSOC. Work continues to scale capability and workforce, including the stand-up of new venture teams to establish several new-to-Defence capabilities, including the nucleus of a Joint Electromagnetic Spectrum Operations Centre, as DCEMF matures towards Full Operating Capability.

Verbatim has judged this answer against the question that was actually asked — answered, partly answered, or evaded. Sign in to see the verdict →

Open this question in Verbatim →

Every written question, searchable

155,000 questions tabled since the election, with the answer each department gave — and the ones still unanswered, with the clock running. Free to search.

Search written questions →Read on Verbatim