CMMC Compliance: What Aerospace and Defense Manufacturers Need to Know

Cyber threats are growing, and the U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) isn’t taking any chances. To protect sensitive information, they created the Cybersecurity Maturity Model Certification (CMMC).

If your company works with the DoD, whether you’re a contractor, supplier, or subcontractor, compliance isn’t optional. It’s the key to securing future contracts and protecting your business from cyberattacks.

Many manufacturers still don’t understand what CMMC requires or how soon they need to act. But waiting could cost you. Compliance deadlines are approaching fast, and without certification, you may be locked out of lucrative defense contracts.

This guide breaks down what you need to know about CMMC, what’s changing with CMMC 2.0, and how to get certified before it’s too late.

What Is CMMC?

CMMC is a cybersecurity framework designed to make sure companies handling government data follow strict security protocols. It applies to all businesses working in the Defense Industrial Base (DIB), a vast network of contractors, manufacturers, and suppliers providing technology, components, and services to the DoD.

The goal of CMMC is to protect Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI). CUI is sensitive but non-classified data that, if leaked, could harm national security. Unlike previous security guidelines, CMMC isn’t voluntary. If your company wants to win or keep DoD contracts, compliance is mandatory.

Why CMMC Matters

Cyberattacks on defense contractors are increasing. Hackers target manufacturers to steal blueprints, disrupt supply chains, and access classified projects. A single breach could cost millions, and the DoD wants to make certain every company in its network is doing its part to prevent cyber threats.

Failing to comply with CMMC means the risk of a data breach. Moreover, it means that your business could lose contracts or be disqualified from future bids. Aerospace and defense manufacturers must start taking compliance seriously to avoid disruptions and revenue loss.

What’s Changing with CMMC 2.0?

CMMC was first introduced in 2020, but after industry feedback, the DoD simplified it. CMMC 2.0 was released in 2021, and it focuses on making compliance easier while still keeping security high.

Three Levels of Certification

Instead of five levels, CMMC 2.0 has three. Each level represents the security requirements a company must meet:

• Level 1 (Foundational): Basic security measures like using strong passwords and updating software regularly. Required for companies handling Federal Contract Information (FCI), which is non-sensitive government data.
• Level 2 (Advanced): More comprehensive security practices, aligned with NIST SP 800-171 guidelines. Required for companies handling Controlled Unclassified Information (CUI).
• Level 3 (Expert): The highest level of security, designed for companies working on the most sensitive defense projects. This level follows NIST SP 800-172, which includes advanced protections against cyber threats.

How You Get Certified

Before CMMC 2.0, all companies needed third-party assessments. Now, requirements depend on the level:

• Level 1: Companies can self-assess once a year and submit their results to the DoD.
• Level 2: Some companies can self-assess, but others must pass an independent third-party audit by a CMMC Third-Party Assessment Organization (C3PAO).
• Level 3: Requires a government-led assessment by the DoD itself.

These changes make compliance easier for smaller manufacturers while ensuring companies handling sensitive data follow strict security protocols.

CMMC Compliance Deadlines: What You Need to Know

The DoD is rolling out CMMC in phases. While the final rule went into effect in late 2024, the deadlines for compliance are fast approaching.

• March 1, 2025: Any company needing Level 1 or Level 2 certification must complete its assessment by this date. If you don’t have your certification, you may lose existing contracts or be unable to bid on new ones.
• March 1, 2028: By this date, CMMC will be required for all DoD contracts. If you plan to work with the government, compliance won’t be optional.

Many companies make the mistake of waiting too long to start the certification process. If too many businesses rush at the last minute, third-party assessors may not be able to keep up, leading to delays. It’s better to start now so you’re not scrambling to meet deadlines.

How to Become CMMC Compliant

Meeting CMMC requirements takes planning. The sooner you start, the better. Here’s how aerospace and defense manufacturers can get certified:

1. Assess Your Current Security Practices

Before making any changes, figure out where you stand. Conduct a gap analysis to compare your existing cybersecurity measures against CMMC requirements. Identify weaknesses and prioritize what needs to be fixed.

This includes reviewing:

• Who has access to sensitive data
• How passwords and authentication are managed
• Whether your software is up to date and patched
• How employees are trained on cybersecurity best practices

2. Develop a Compliance Roadmap

Once you know what needs improvement, create a step-by-step plan. Break it into manageable tasks, set deadlines, and assign responsibilities.

If you need a third-party assessment for Level 2 or 3, factor in time to find a certified assessor and schedule an audit. These assessments can take weeks or even months, so don’t wait until the last minute.

3. Implement Security Controls

Start fixing the issues identified in your gap analysis. This could mean:

• Upgrading firewalls and encryption
• Requiring multi-factor authentication for all employees
• Training staff to recognize phishing attacks
• Setting up monitoring tools to detect security threats in real time

Despite conjecture, cybersecurity is about processes and people as much as it is about your technology. Making sure employees follow best practices is equally as important as upgrading software.

4. Maintain Compliance Over Time

CMMC compliance isn’t a one-time event. Companies must conduct annual assessments and keep improving their cybersecurity measures. Cyber threats evolve, and businesses need to adapt to stay protected.

Regularly review security policies, train employees, and stay informed about new DoD requirements. If you fail to maintain compliance, you could lose your certification and risk future contracts.

How ERP Systems Help with CMMC Compliance

A modern ERP system (Enterprise Resource Planning) can simplify compliance by:

• Securing sensitive data: ERP software encrypts information and restricts access based on user roles.
• Tracking compliance efforts: Built-in audit trails document security actions, making it easier to pass CMMC assessments.
• Automating security updates: Reduces the risk of human error by keeping software patched and up to date.

ERP solutions like Infor SyteLine help manufacturers protect data while staying productive.

Our .Gov solution can help you get on the fast track to compliance. 

What’s Your Next Move?

CMMC compliance isn’t just a government requirement. It’s a must for protecting your business from cyber threats. The longer you wait, the harder it will be to meet the deadlines.

If you’re unsure where to start, you don’t have to do it alone. Godlan has over 40 years of experience helping aerospace and defense manufacturers navigate compliance, implement secure ERP solutions, and stay competitive.

We can help you:

• Understand your specific CMMC requirements
• Develop a customized compliance plan
• Integrate secure ERP solutions to simplify cybersecurity
• Prepare for assessments and audits

CMMC is coming fast, and companies that act now will have a competitive advantage. Don’t wait until it’s too late.

At Godlan, we have over 40 years of experience helping aerospace and defense manufacturers protect and grow their businesses. If you have compliance concerns or want to learn how to beat the competition, schedule a consultation with our experts and get started today.