Defense contractor cybersecurity, CMMC compliance, and aerospace regulatory requirements for Massachusetts contractors.
Massachusetts has a significant defense and aerospace industry, with companies like Raytheon Technologies (now RTX), L3Harris, and hundreds of defense contractors and subcontractors. The state receives billions in defense contracts annually. Defense contractors must comply with stringent cybersecurity requirements (CMMC, DFARS, NIST SP 800-171) in addition to Massachusetts data security laws.
All companies in Massachusetts, including those in the defense & aerospace sector, must comply with Massachusetts data security and privacy regulations:
Pro Tip: Start with 201 CMR 17.00 - Massachusetts' foundational data security regulation that applies to all businesses handling personal information of Massachusetts residents.
These frameworks are legally required for defense & aerospace companies. Non-compliance can result in significant penalties, fines, and legal consequences.
Standards for the Protection of Personal Information of Residents of the Commonwealth
Massachusetts comprehensive data security regulation requiring businesses to protect personal information of Massachusetts residents.
Massachusetts General Law Chapter 93H - Notification of Security Breaches
Massachusetts law requiring notification of security breaches involving personal information.
Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information in Nonfederal Systems and Organizations
Federal standard establishing recommended security requirements for protecting Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) in nonfederal systems and organizations, mandatory for defense contractors and federal contractors handling CUI.
Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification Version 2.0
Comprehensive framework established by U.S. Department of Defense to verify and certify that Defense Industrial Base contractors and subcontractors have implemented required cybersecurity safeguards to protect Federal Contract Information and Controlled Unclassified Information.
Defense Federal Acquisition Regulation Supplement - Cybersecurity Clauses
Defense-specific federal acquisition regulations establishing mandatory cybersecurity standards and incident reporting procedures for all Department of Defense contractors and subcontractors handling Covered Defense Information or Controlled Unclassified Information.
While not legally mandatory, these frameworks represent industry best practices for defense & aerospace companies. Implementing these can improve security posture, build customer trust, and provide competitive advantages.
National Institute of Standards and Technology Cybersecurity Framework Version 2.0
Voluntary framework providing guidance for organizations to manage and reduce cybersecurity risk through a common language and systematic approach.
Security and Privacy Controls for Information Systems and Organizations
Comprehensive catalog of security and privacy controls for federal information systems and organizations, providing over 1,150 controls across 20 control families to protect organizational operations and assets from diverse threats.
Enhanced Security Requirements for Protecting Controlled Unclassified Information: A Supplement to NIST Special Publication 800-171
Enhanced security requirements providing additional protection for Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI) associated with critical programs and high-value assets, designed to defend against Advanced Persistent Threats (APTs).
Information security, cybersecurity and privacy protection — Information security management systems — Requirements
International standard specifying requirements for establishing, implementing, maintaining and continually improving an Information Security Management System (ISMS), with risk-based approach to protecting information assets.
Additional frameworks that may apply depending on your specific business operations, client requirements, or industry partnerships.
Follow this recommended sequence to achieve compliance as a Massachusetts defense & aerospace company.
Begin with 201 CMR 17.00 (data security) and M.G.L. c. 93H (breach notification). These apply to all Massachusetts businesses and form the foundation of your compliance program. Prepare for MDPA compliance (effective 2025).
Address all mandatory frameworks for the defense & aerospace sector. These are non-negotiable legal requirements with enforcement and penalties.
Strengthen your security posture with recommended frameworks. While not mandatory, these can differentiate your company, win customer trust, and may become requirements for certain contracts or partnerships.
Compliance is not a one-time project. Maintain ongoing monitoring, conduct regular assessments, update policies as regulations change, and train employees continuously. Use MyRHC to track your compliance status and stay informed of regulatory updates.
Get started with MyRHCMyRHC provides comprehensive tools and guidance for Massachusetts defense & aerospace companies to navigate complex compliance requirements.