Overview: In this episode of Cyber Focus, host Frank Cilluffo sits down with Admiral Mike Rogers (Ret.), former Commander of U.S. Cyber Command and Director of the National Security Agency. Rogers shares insights from his leadership across two administrations, discussing offensive cyber operations, the evolution of Cyber Command, and pressing national security challenges. The conversation spans from undersea cable vulnerabilities to public-private integration, the future of quantum and AI, and the enduring need for clarity in cyber policy. A decorated Auburn alum, Rogers reflects on lessons learned, historical inflection points, and what must change for the U.S. to stay ahead in the cyber domain.

Main Topics Covered:

• Shifting to a proactive cyber posture: persistent engagement and defend forward
• The evolving role of Cyber Command and comparisons to SOCOM
• Vulnerabilities in undersea cable infrastructure and space-like situational awareness
• Lessons from Ukraine on real-time public-private integration
• Strategic implications of AI and quantum technologies

Key Quotes:

“I believe that what [offensive cyber actions] we ought to authorize is not just going after infrastructure but directly going after capability within those nations that are generating these effects against us.” — Adm. Mike Rogers

“If you're going to deter an entity, they have to have some level of awareness of both [your] capability and intent.” — Adm. Mike Rogers

“If you had asked me five years ago when I left Cyber Command, would a foreign entity, in this case a nation-state, upload destructive malware into critical U.S. infrastructure in a time of peace?... I would have said to you… there's a low probability. Boy, I got that wrong.” — Adm. Mike Rogers

“I think it requires a little precision in how we discuss these matters. Because not all hacks are the same, not all hackers are the same, not all intentions are the same, not all capabilities are the same. [Not] everything is an ‘attack’.” — Frank Cilluffo

“I'm not interested in collaboration; I'm interested in integration. I'm interested in a real-time situational awareness between government and the private sector.” — Adm. Mike Rogers

Relevant Links and Resources:

• U.S. Cyber Command – Mission and Vision https://www.cybercom.mil/About/Mission-and-Vision/
• NSA – About the Agency https://www.nsa.gov/about/
• Cyberspace Solarium Commission Final Report https://www.solarium.gov/report

Guest Bio: Adm. Mike Rogers (Ret.) served as the Director of the National Security Agency and Commander of U.S. Cyber Command from 2014 to 2018. A four-star admiral with a distinguished 37-year career in the U.S. Navy, he helped shape modern cyber strategy at the highest levels of government. Since retiring from active duty, he has advised Fortune 500 companies, startups, and global institutions on cyber, intelligence, and national security issues.