What is the primary focus of the National Infrastructure Protection Plan?

The primary focus of the National Infrastructure Protection Plan (NIPP) is to prevent or mitigate the effects of terrorist attacks and other hazards on the nation’s critical infrastructure. This plan emphasizes the importance of protecting vital systems and functions that support the nation, including public safety, economic security, and health. It outlines a collaborative approach to identify risks, manage vulnerabilities, and enhance the resilience of infrastructure against a range of threats, including natural disasters and man-made attacks.

By focusing on prevention and mitigation, the NIPP aims to ensure that critical infrastructure can continue to function during and after adverse events, thereby maintaining safety and security for the public. This involves not only preparedness and response but also recovery efforts to restore services as quickly as possible.

While cybersecurity infrastructure and transportation systems are important aspects of national security, they are components of a broader strategy to safeguard against the impacts of terrorism and other risks. Building military defenses, although crucial for national security in a different context, is not the central theme of the NIPP.