• More than 140 defense programs rely on software vulnerable to runtime security gaps.
• The proposed Digital Golden Dome aims to protect software in mission-critical environments.
• Report identifies $87 billion in fiscal year 2026 procurement at risk.
• Authors propose Operational Software Assurance to address the gap.

This report may indicate a significant cybersecurity risk across the US defense sector, suggesting a need for increased investment in runtime protection and Operational Software Assurance. The proposed Digital Golden Dome could provide a framework for addressing these vulnerabilities, which could have major implications for the security of mission-critical systems.