In recent years, emerging technologies such as self-driving cars, Artificial Intelligence (AI), Machine Learning (ML), automation, virtualization, smart cities, blockchain networks, Big Data, Internet of Things (IoT), Internet of Senses, cloud and quantum computing have substantially altered the social, financial, business, and military environments. These technologies will create new opportunities and challenges in almost all daily activities, including military operations. However, they simultaneously generate concerns that state-sponsored actors could interfere and disrupt their features and services, posing a massive threat to strategically vital networks. In this article, we will explore the cybersecurity challenges posed by emerging technologies and their solutions.

One of the most significant concerns surrounding emerging technologies is the potential to increase the attack surface and the number of entry points for hackers, particularly with 5G technology. This is because of the large number of connected devices with weaker security features, such as baby monitors, refrigerators, and fire alarms. The communication between these devices can be the weakest link in 5G’s security, which increases the risk of cyberattacks. As a result, governments have taken measures to mitigate this risk, such as restricting Huawei’s 5G kit.

Virtualization is one of the emerging technologies that can provide an effective cybersecurity ecosystem. It makes computing environments more independent of physical infrastructure and creates virtual scenarios that may determine the vulnerabilities of the networks in advance. Together with artificial neural networks and other systems, virtualization can build resilience and enable a better understanding of cyber capabilities and vulnerabilities. This knowledge can support Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) tracking of malicious attacks and maintaining the required security standards.

Cloud computing, 5G technology, and real-time virtual environments can take military training and exercises to a new level of innovation and agility. Accessibility and flexibility will become key features of new, advanced mobile simulations where trainees will learn at their own pace and in their own space. Additionally, Extended Reality (XR) – encompassing Augmented Reality (AR), Mixed Reality (MR) and Virtual Reality (VR) – has become a ubiquitous computing platform not only for gaming but also for distance training, retail shopping, working, and socializing.

Furthermore, autonomy and intelligence are the key factors in determining the range of ‘reality-virtuality continuum,’ transforming a human experience, increasing situational awareness, and refining the decision-making process. However, to automate complex operations, certain levels of trust, scalability, and autonomy must be reached and matured. Human-machine interactions are built on three levels of autonomy: semi-autonomous (human-in-the-loop); human supervised autonomy (human-on-the-loop); total autonomy (human-out-of-the-loop).

Takeaway

As the world continues to rapidly evolve, emerging technologies have become increasingly prevalent in all areas of society, including military operations. While these technologies offer great potential for innovation and agility, they also pose significant cybersecurity challenges that require proactive measures to be taken to mitigate risks.

Fortunately, solutions such as virtualization, artificial neural networks, and Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) tracking have emerged as effective ways to build resilience and better understand cyber capabilities and vulnerabilities. These technologies have proven themselves to be vital tools in safeguarding against cyber threats, allowing for greater security and peace of mind.

Moreover, as we continue to explore the possibilities of emerging technologies, it becomes increasingly clear that autonomy and intelligence are essential factors in determining the range of the ‘reality-virtuality continuum’. These factors hold the key to transforming the human experience, increasing situational awareness, and refining the decision-making process.

In today’s rapidly evolving world, staying ahead of the curve is more important than ever before. By embracing emerging technologies, while also taking proactive steps to mitigate their risks, we can take advantage of the opportunities they provide while keeping our systems and data safe and secure.