Defense Media Activity (DMA): A Guide for New Government Contractors

Understanding DMA

What is DMA?

The Defense Media Activity (DMA) is a Department of Defense (DoD) agency responsible for producing and distributing media content to inform, educate, and engage U.S. military personnel, their families, and the public. DMA provides critical communication support to enhance DoD outreach, morale, and operational effectiveness.

Key Areas of Focus:

  • Armed Forces Radio and Television Service (AFRTS): Broadcasting radio and television programming to military audiences worldwide.
  • American Forces Network (AFN): Delivering entertainment, news, and sports programming to deployed service members.
  • DoD Public Affairs Support: Assisting military branches with press releases, internal communications, and media relations.
  • Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS): Providing photo, video, and multimedia content to enhance DoD messaging.
  • Military News and Digital Publications: Managing digital and print news platforms such as DoD News and Stars and Stripes.
  • Social Media and Digital Engagement: Overseeing official DoD social media channels and online outreach campaigns.
  • Strategic Communications and Training: Supporting public affairs training and multimedia production for military personnel.

Mission and Goals

DMA’s mission is to deliver high-quality media content that informs and strengthens the connection between the DoD and its global audience. Key goals include:

  • Enhancing Military Communication: Providing accurate and timely information to service members and their families.
  • Supporting Morale and Welfare: Delivering news, entertainment, and cultural programming to deployed troops.
  • Strengthening DoD Public Affairs and Outreach: Assisting military leaders in effective communication strategies.
  • Advancing Digital Transformation: Expanding DoD’s presence across digital and social media platforms.
  • Ensuring Secure and Reliable Media Distribution: Implementing advanced technologies to protect DoD media content and data.

DMA Organization

DMA operates through multiple divisions, each responsible for different aspects of military media production and distribution. Key components include:

  • AFN Broadcast Center: Manages radio and television content delivery to U.S. forces overseas.
  • Defense Visual Information Distribution Service (DVIDS): Provides real-time multimedia content to enhance DoD communication efforts.
  • DoD News and Publications: Produces official military news content and manages publications such as Stars and Stripes.
  • DMA Social Media Division: Oversees digital engagement and social media strategy for the DoD.
  • Public Affairs Training and Support: Offers training programs for military personnel involved in media and communications roles.

DMA collaborates with military public affairs offices, the Pentagon, and other DoD agencies to ensure a unified communication strategy.

Advancing Your Career as a Contractor with DMA

Helpful Tips for Media, IT, and Communications Contractors:

  • Understand DMA’s Mission and Content Needs: Align your services with DMA’s focus on broadcasting, multimedia production, and digital communication.
  • Stay Compliant with DoD Media Policies: Ensure adherence to DoD Public Affairs regulations, Federal Acquisition Regulations (FAR), and data security guidelines.
  • Master DMA Systems and Platforms: Gain expertise in broadcasting technology, digital content management systems, and DoD-approved social media tools.
  • Cybersecurity and Digital Media Protection: Contractors handling video production, media distribution, and IT systems must comply with CMMC, FedRAMP, and DoD cybersecurity requirements.
  • Effective Storytelling and Messaging: Develop content that enhances DoD outreach, engagement, and internal communications.
  • Networking and Market Research: Participate in DMA Industry Days, DoD media summits, and defense contracting workshops to explore opportunities.
  • Focus on High-Quality, Secure Media Solutions: Whether in broadcasting, digital engagement, or public affairs training, prioritize content accuracy, security, and accessibility.
  • Maintain Accurate Compliance and Project Documentation: Ensure meticulous records for contract performance, security audits, and content approvals.

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