Cybersecurity and CUI Safeguarding (Subcontract Flow-Down)

All subcontractors handling covered defense information must fully implement the cybersecurity controls outlined in NIST Special Publication 800-171 to safeguard controlled unclassified information. This includes establishing and maintaining a secure environment that meets all required technical, administrative, and physical safeguards to prevent unauthorized access, disclosure, or loss of sensitive data. Subcontractors are also obligated to report any cyber incidents affecting their systems or data immediately, following standardized procedures for detection, response, and notification to ensure timely mitigation and government awareness. Compliance with these requirements is mandatory and non-negotiable, as they are flowing down from the prime contract under the Department of Defense’s broader cybersecurity framework. The subcontract applies to any entity performing work involving covered defense information, regardless of size or scope, and failure to adhere to the NIST SP 800-171 controls or delay in reporting incidents may result in contract termination, financial penalties, or loss of eligibility for future work. The contract falls under NAICS code 541512 and is administered by the Defense Logistics Agency, with performance obligations tied to Department of Defense cybersecurity mandates.