The expansion of military technology suppliers

Just like ground, air, sea and space are part of the modern battlefield, cyber has now become an integral part of the modern field of combat. As such, it is creating a dramatic and continuous challenge for the military. The pace of advancement of technologies that are impacting today's battlefield continues to accelerate. In addition, the rapid development of derivative technologies creates an even greater challenge for the U.S. Army, Navy, Air Force and Marine Corps.

If you are unfamiliar with the term "derivative technologies," it is a budding technology concept or emerging technology that results from the introduction and/or use of a new technology that has different capabilities than any technology that is in existence at that time. All of this adds up to one thing and that is a military that is much more technologically intensive — or in some cases more reliant than at any other time in history.

Few people would dispute how much new and emerging technologies have and will change modern conflict. That is why military leaders the world over are discussing future war fighting theories, concepts and capabilities, and all of that is tied to technology. All these emerging technologies are fueling the development and expansion of the defense industries domestically and abroad. That translates to highly competitive, non-Western military and intelligence technology providers supplying mission critical technologies on a global scale.

Many watching these events have voiced their concerns that this could or already is rapidly diminishing the West's role as the world's dominant military equipment/technology supplier. If that happens, it will have huge consequences for the defense industry and global security. Perhaps the greatest consequence is the increased role cyber defense must play in protecting the modern military infrastructure — from concept, clear through retirement. That being said, the evolving situation with respect to emerging foreign suppliers of military technology must be addressed immediately if the U.S. is to retain its leadership position.

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