Cyber-related crime has soared in recent years, with reported incidents increasing by 31% since the pandemic, and more than 7.78 million British businesses reporting experiencing a cyber attack or threat in 2024.
Businesses of any size or scale stand in the direct line of fire for becoming a victim of a cyber attack. After the United States, the United Kingdom is the second-most targeted country for cybercriminals, further highlighting the critical importance of implementing robust cybersecurity strategies to protect British intelligence, digital systems and infrastructure.
In response to the growing threat, the UK Government has outlined a five-year strategy to see them investing nearly £2.0 billion in cybersecurity infrastructure. Not only does this come when the digital landscape is rapidly growing, but safeguarding national security infrastructure against political adversaries is becoming increasingly important amid escalating conflict.
However, a bigger need for cybersecurity planning is being recognized in the defence sector. A myriad of defence contractors working directly with government agencies and other private institutions have come under threat of malicious digital attacks. As the defence sector undertakes a series of new threats, so will defence contractors need to take the necessary measures to protect sensitive information.
Cyber Defence Strategy Objectives
Moving forward, defence contractors working with national government agencies will need to take more proactive measures to ensure they have the necessary cybersecurity support infrastructure in place. This will require them to:
- Develop a cybersecurity plan: Creating a robust cybersecurity plan is key to minimising any potential threats. Part of this process should include the assessment of existing digital systems, and looking to extend cybersecurity expertise with skillful professionals.
- Protect systems against cyber attacks: Implement cybersecurity infrastructure that will protect systems and safeguard sensitive information. Defence contractors will need to have a proactive approach to using trusted, reliable and high-quality cybersecurity measures throughout their business.
- Manage cybersecurity risks and attacks: In the event of an attack, contractors should ensure that they have a necessary plan of action in place to minimise the threat or deter any malicious actors in the process. Effective cybersecurity management will provide improved assessment and accountability of security measures.
- Detecting any cyber threats: Organisational leaders should invest in systems that will help them detect any threats in advance. This includes using cybersecurity frameworks that can identify any person or group that could be a direct threat to the business. Using these measures could help minimise unlawful access to sensitive information, and restrict bad actors from leaking valuable data.
- Rapid response to threats: With defence cybersecurity solutions, any contractor will have the ability to contain and assess possible threats for wide-scale rapid response. This in turn will allow them to develop more thorough defence mechanisms to ensure they cover all of their bases.
Types Of Cybersecurity Contracts
Cybersecurity defence contracts can vary depending on the requirements of the national government and defence sector. In recent years there has been a strong increase in digital security in military contracts as cybersecurity innovations for defence become a more critical element in the safeguarding of sensitive information and data.
Software Solutions
Companies with expertise in designing cyber systems play a valuable part in helping develop more robust security measures. These contracts oversee the development of cyber security programs, tools and resources.
Cyber Skills Development
Skills training ensures that all employees are well-equipped with the necessary skills, tools and knowledge to identify and manage cybersecurity risks. These contracts provide front-line workers with valuable insights and training.
Incident Response
During an attack, containment and assessment is crucial in understanding current weak points, and looking to develop a more robust system that can undertake more severe cyber threats.
Penetration Testing
Companies with experience in penetration testing help to carry out and simulate cyberattacks on existing systems to identify possible vulnerabilities in an agency’s IT or computer system.
AI Software Solutions
Artificial Intelligence (AI) plays a big role in how the defence sector can use advanced digital technology to protect and defend its assets. Without proper guidance, the development of these software solutions could create further risks down the line.
Security Assurance
Security assurance is an important link in cyber threats and defence strategies. Measuring the cyber resilience of a security system, including its objectives, procedures, and architecture equips both private and public enterprises with more accurate information to assist in developing future cybersecurity policies and critical infrastructure.
Comprehensive Security Frameworks
To implement a functioning cybersecurity strategy in any industry, the development of comprehensive security frameworks helps to push the boundaries of digital innovation. These contracts cover a variety of facets, including protective technologies, risk assessment, identity lifecycle management and access controls, among others.
Qualification Requirement For Cybersecurity Defence Contracts
Defence and cyber contractors working with the Ministry of Defence (MOD) often become targets of cyber attackers. Aligning business qualifications with cybersecurity compliance in defence is key to establishing a lasting relationship with the defence sector and maintaing compliant security posture.
For instance, MBDA, a missile manufacturer and contractor was hacked in 2022, leaving highly sensitive information such as missile and weapon blueprints used by NATO allies in Ukraine exposed, and was later sold online. Having the necessary qualifications can help your business stand out and ensure that you can provide a quality service or product.
- Cyber Essentials Scheme Accreditation: The CES Accreditation is a government-supported scheme that helps to promote the protection and safeguarding of organisations against the most common cyber attacks. This is the most basic level of accreditation needed by any business looking to apply for and win cyber and defence contracts.
- Cyber Essentials Plus Accreditation: This is considered a more advanced level of protection under the CES and organisations with a moderate to high risk profile are advised to complete this accreditation before applying for cyber contracts. This accreditation promotes network protection and early warning of cyber activities that can pose significant harm.
- Defence Standard 05-138: This is an overview of all the important processes and requirements that suppliers will need to adhere to before they can be considered for high-profile contracts. Regulatory compliance includes document and implementing control for all systems and reporting any impractical systems.
- Contract-Specific Requirements: Depending on the type of contract that your business is applying for, you need to ensure that you have read through the bid outline and that you meet all the listed requirements. Compliance with regulatory authorities is crucial to ensuring safe and protected software systems are being used in the defence sector.
Protecting National Security Through Contracts
Cybercrime will mature over the years, meaning that hackers will deploy more sophisticated attacks on the country’s most valuable security infrastructure. By implementing appropriate cybersecurity systems, and allowing for more effective collaboration between the public sector and private industry, the United Kingdom, along with the Ministry of Defence can lead the race in global security efficiency.
