ANCHOR Act

The bill directs the National Science Foundation Director to produce, within one year of enactment, a plan that improves the cybersecurity and telecommunications of the U.S. Academic Research Fleet . The plan must include assessments of current network and security needs, cost estimates for equipment and personnel, implementation timelines, and options for shared or centralized solutions. It also requires a coordinated spending strategy that involves federal agencies, non‑federal vessel owners, and users to cover the identified costs. The goal is to provide reliable, secure connectivity that supports scientific missions and data transfer. In preparing the plan, the Director must consider network capabilities such as bandwidth for real‑time data streaming, telemedicine, and remote expert access to instrumentation and maintenance. The plan should align with the JASON report on cybersecurity at NSF facilities, adopt international security standards, and ensure encryption and incident response procedures are in place. It also calls for training of research and support staff in cybersecurity practices and for the integration of controlled unclassified or classified information handling. The bill emphasizes collaboration among the National Science Foundation, the Office of Naval Research, and other stakeholders to secure the fleet’s cyber and communications infrastructure.