The Department of War’s (DOW) (formerly Department of Defense (DOD) long-anticipated Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) is no longer just guidance — it’s become a binding part of DoW contracts for defense and federal vendors. This new requirement ensures that companies handling sensitive information are meeting standardized cybersecurity measures. Concerned about losing DoW business over cybersecurity compliance? Getting your CMMC readiness assessed now gives you clarity on where you stand and what gaps to close before compliance deadlines tighten. Start a readiness compliance review today and secure your competitive spot.
What CMMC Is and Why It Matters
At its core, CMMC is a framework that verifies cybersecurity practices for contractors and subcontractors who handle Federal Contract Information (FCI) or Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) for the Department of Defense.
- Tiered Requirements: CMMC uses three levels of cybersecurity standards. Level 1 focuses on basic safeguarding, Level 2 aligns with broader NIST standards for protecting CUI, and Level 3 includes advanced protections for the most sensitive information.
- Assessment Types: Requirements range from self-assessments to third-party certification based on the level and sensitivity of data involved.
- Flow-Down Rules: Subcontractors generally must meet the same CMMC level as the primary when they process, store, or transmit relevant information.
CMMC aligns cybersecurity expectations across the defense industrial base, offering DoW increased confidence that sensitive information is protected throughout the supply chain.
CMMC 2.0 Becomes Contractually Required November 10, 2025
Important compliance milestone: On November 10, 2025, the CMMC requirements embedded in the Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement (DFARS) become enforceable in new DoW solicitations and contracts.
- Phase 1 (Nov 2025–Nov 2026): Contracts start, including requirements for CMMC Level 1 and Level 2 self-assessments as a condition of award. At DoW’s discretion, some may require third-party Level 2 assessments.
- Subsequent Phases: Over the next few years, third-party certifications and advanced Level 3 requirements will phase into more contract awards and renewals.
This phased rollout gives contractors time to align their systems and certification efforts, but waiting too long risks missed contract opportunities and eligibility gaps as DoW embeds CMMC into solicitations. Unsure which CMMC level applies to your contracts? Mapping your current cybersecurity posture to CMMC levels cuts risk and prevents surprises in proposal evaluations. Request a tailored CMMC level mapping consultation.
What Contractors Must Do Now
1. Identify Your Required CMMC Level
Determine whether your contracts involve FCI only or CUI, and whether that puts you on a path for self-assessment or third-party certification.
2. Plan Assessments and Evidence
Start documentation and readiness activities early. For Level 1 and Level 2, you’ll need to be able to:
- Self-assess and score your compliance
- Submit evidence to SPRS (Supplier Performance Risk System)
- Engage a C3PAO for required third-party certifications where DoW directs.
3. Align Tools and Policies
Update cybersecurity policies, controls, and systems to meet NIST SP 800-171 requirements for Level 2, and plan for enhanced controls at Level 3 if your work involves high-impact information.
Why Early CMMC Preparation Pays Off
Waiting until the November 10 start date leaves little buffer for discovery, vulnerabilities, or assessor scheduling. Early preparation:
- Builds confidence ahead of contract awards
- Reduces risk of failed assessments
- Helps avoid eligibility gaps that could cost bids or revenue
Want to start strong rather than scramble later? We can align your cybersecurity practices to CMMC standards and deliver an action plan that keeps you on schedule. Begin a compliance readiness plan with expert guidance.
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