Central Security Service (CSS) Established, 1972

The Central Security Service (CSS) provides timely and accurate cryptologic support, knowledge, and assistance to the military cryptologic community.

Established by presidential directive in 1972, CSS promotes full partnership between the NSA and the cryptologic elements of the Armed Forces, and teams with senior military and civilian leaders to address and act on critical military-related issues in support of national and tactical intelligence objectives. CSS coordinates and develops policy and guidance on the signals intelligence and cybersecurity missions of NSA/CSS to ensure military integration.

Combining NSA and CSS caused the Director, NSA to become dual-hatted as Chief, CSS and also created a more unified cryptologic effort. The principal advisor to Director, NSA/Chief CSS on military cryptologic issues is the Deputy Chief/CSS (DCH/CSS). The DCH/CSS oversees the function of the military cryptology system; manages and cultivates the partnerships between NSA/CSS and the Service Cryptologic Elements; and ensures military capabilities.