DARPA selected seven major defense companies and research institutions -- BAE Systems, General Dynamics (NYSE:GD), Johns Hopkins University, Lockheed Martin, Northrop Grumman, SAIC and SPARTA -- as part of the Comprehensive National Cybersecurity Initiative.

Officials say the CNCI contracts were awarded as part of an effort to advance cybersecurity for U.S. government operations with next-generation technologies deployable in as little as five years.

"Cyber attacks are a common and increasing occurrence," Michael VanPutte, DARPA program manager, said in a statement.

"As a result, it's essential that the United States maintain a strong technological advantage in cybersecurity."