The Impact of New and Emerging Technologies on the Cyber Threat Landscape and Their Implications for NATO

This report examines how emerging technologies may impact the cyber threat landscape and NATO's preparedness

Excerpt from report:
“Recent years have seen significant advances in a wide array of new and emerging technologies with disruptive potential, several of which have an inherent cyber dimension.”

The research method involved reviewing RAND Europe’s Centre for Futures and Foresight Studies (CFFS) science and technology horizon-scanning database, which systematically captures reports on the latest developments across various disciplines. The approach combines bibliometric and scientometric methods with expert engagement and assessments.

* Environmental scanning used

The report explores the potential cyber threats arising from new technologies and their implications for NATO over the next decade. It highlights the rapid pace of technological change and the challenges this poses for NATO's mission and objectives. The paper discusses individual technologies, complex interactions between them, and broader socio-economic trends. It emphasizes the need for NATO to understand these implications to maintain resilience and maneuverability in the cyber domain. The technologies considered include artificial intelligence, autonomous systems, telecommunications, satellites, human-machine interfaces, and quantum computing. The report concludes with considerations for NATO to prepare for, respond to, and mitigate these challenges.

Drivers mentioned include:

• Artificial Intelligence and Machine Learning
• Autonomous Devices and Systems
• Computing, Data Storage, Sensors and Telecommunications Technologies
• Satellites and Space Assets
• Human-Machine Interfaces
• Quantum Computing
• Complex Synergies and Effects

Categories: English publication language | Global geographic scope | cyber security | cybersecurity | disruptive technologies | emerging technologies | emerging threats | future threats | nato | north atlantic treaty organization | other geographic scope | threat assessment