CMMC Goes Live: What It Means for Defense Contractors!

AirGap Labs has started a compliance practice focusing on CMMC!

The countdown is officially on! The Department of Defense's Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC) program will become enforceable in all new defense contracts starting November 10, 2025. This marks a monumental shift in compliance requirements for companies looking to do business with the DoD, effectively transforming the defense contracting landscape.

Here’s why this matters:

1️⃣ **Legal Requirement** - For the first time, CMMC compliance isn't just a guideline—it's a legal necessity for bidding on DoD contracts. Companies that fail to meet these standards risk losing the opportunity to participate in lucrative contracts.

2️⃣ **Focus on Compliance** - The transition from self-assessments to mandatory third-party assessments means that any contractor handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) must secure their certification through an accredited provider.

3️⃣ **Supply Chain Impact** - Compliance isn’t just the responsibility of prime contractors anymore; all suppliers and subcontractors must also adhere to CMMC standards. This is a pivotal move towards ensuring cybersecurity is a collective effort across the defense supply chain.

4️⃣ **Long-Term Commitment** - CMMC compliance isn’t a one-time event. Organizations will need ongoing assessments and documentation to retain their certification, making it essential to integrate cybersecurity into the organizational culture.

The implications of CMMC are vast—for contractors, for supply chains, and ultimately for national security. As we navigate this new era of compliance, let's pool our insights and strategies. How is your organization preparing for this significant change?