Delaware Air Guard breaks ground on cyber security building

Construction for the nation’s first cyber security facility is underway in Delaware.

Construction for the nation’s first cyber security facility is underway in Delaware.
Members of the Delaware Air National Guard joined the state’s Congressional Delegation and local elected officials in a groundbreaking ceremony at the New Castle airbase on Thursday.

The 3.2 million dollar project will create a 9,300 square foot cyber security building for Delaware Air Guard’s 166th Network Warfare Squadron.

The 60 members, or “cyber warriors”, will be responsible for protecting the state and the nation from electronic warfare by conducting network security operations, identifying threats to American security and advising national authorities if and when to take action.

Brigadier General Hugh Broomall says after years of planning, he is thrilled to be celebrating the start of construction for this 21st century cyber safety initiative. “Today’s event marks a ten year journey for Delaware Air National Guard,” General Broomall says, “We’re fortunate to be part of this and be on the leading edge of technology”

The project is also taking an environmentally friendly approach to national security. The building will be constructed with green technology including a geothermal heating and cooling system. It is also planned to become a Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) facility in the state.

Congressman Mike Castle says he sees a number of advantages to the security initiative. “It is really going to help the environment while helping to grow our economy”

The building is scheduled to be complete by July 2010.