DDFORM254 (Department Of Defense Contract Security Classification Specification)

What is DDFORM254 (Department Of Defense Contract Security Classification Specification)?

The DDFORM254, or Department of Defense Contract Security Classification Specification, is a standard form used by the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) to communicate security requirements to contractors who will be performing work involving access to classified information. It serves as the primary means of conveying security classification guidance and safeguarding requirements for a specific contract.

Definition

The DDFORM254 is a legally binding document that details the specific security requirements for a contractor to protect classified information during the performance of a DoD contract. It outlines the classification level(s) of the information involved, the security controls the contractor must implement, the authorized locations where classified work can be performed, personnel security requirements, and reporting requirements for security incidents. The form is typically prepared by the government contracting activity responsible for the contract and is incorporated as a part of the contract itself. Contractors are legally obligated to adhere to the instructions and requirements outlined within the DDFORM254. This document plays a pivotal role in protecting national security interests when private sector companies are involved in DoD projects requiring access to classified data.

Key Points

• Classification Levels: The form clearly identifies the highest level of classified information (e.g., Confidential, Secret, Top Secret) that the contractor will be exposed to.
• Security Requirements: Specific security measures the contractor must implement, such as physical security controls, information system security, and personnel security screening.
• Subcontractor Management: The DDFORM254 details requirements related to flowing down security requirements to subcontractors and ensuring they also adhere to the necessary security protocols.
• Contractor Responsibilities: It outlines the specific responsibilities of the contractor regarding the handling, storage, transmission, and destruction of classified information.

Practical Examples

1. Software Development for a Classified System: A software company awarded a contract to develop code for a classified military system receives a DDFORM254 specifying the required security controls for their development environment, including secure coding practices and access controls.
2. Manufacturing Classified Components: A manufacturing company producing components for a classified weapon system receives a DDFORM254 outlining physical security requirements for their facility, personnel security clearance levels required for employees working on the contract, and procedures for safeguarding classified technical data.
3. Providing IT Support for a Government Network: A contractor providing IT support for a DoD network receives a DDFORM254 specifying the necessary cybersecurity measures, user access restrictions, incident response protocols, and data encryption standards to be followed to protect the confidentiality, integrity, and availability of classified information.