The Effects of Hurricane Katrina on the Defense Information Systems Agency Continuity of Operations and Test Facility

Abstract : This audit report is the second in a planned series of audits on the effects of Hurricane Katrina on DoD information technology resources. The first report, DoD Inspector General Report No. D-2007-006, "Hurricane Katrina Disaster Recovery Efforts Related to Army Information Technology Resources," October 19, 2006, discussed the effects of Hurricane Katrina on Army information technology resources operated by the 321st Theater Materiel Management Center. The Defense Information Systems Agency Continuity of Operations and Test Facility (DCTF), located in Slidell, Louisiana, experienced communications disruptions as a result of Hurricane Katrina. DCTF provides information technology services that consist of integrated environments for product evaluation; technology; functional, developmental, performance, and information assurance testing; operational assessments and demonstrations; and knowledge management. Federal policy requires all systems to have a contingency plan to ensure that service support continues through disruptions. In addition, DoD Directive 3020.26, "Defense Continuity Program," September 8, 2004, requires DoD Components to have a comprehensive and effective continuity program that ensures DoD Component mission-essential functions continue under all circumstances. The Directive also requires DoD Components to develop, coordinate, and maintain continuity plans; to update and reissue plans every 2 years; and to test and exercise continuity plans at least annually, or as otherwise directed.