Trident cyber security to receive upgrade in hacker war

IT security for UK’s nuclear weapons arsenal will be given an upgrade to mark the war on cyber criminals.

It is believed that increased protection will be granted to the US-built Trident’s missile system to fend off threats from such nations as North Korea, as well as terrorist groups, which include the so-called ‘Islamic State’.

The Ministry of Defence plans to invest almost £2bn on I.T. security within the next five years, including a programme designed to increase the safety level of UK nuclear warheads, with help from the US Navy.

It is thought that the US military is ready to offer BAE Systems a contract. The UK defence contractor will be asked to develop IT protection for Trident.

A spokesperson from the US Navy’s Strategic Systems Programme, John Daniels, told Bloomberg:

“Now that cyber has become even more important in our national security, there will be even more requirements.

“In our modern era, cyber security threats are a legitimate concern.”

Michael Fallon, British Defence Secretary, said previously that the Government has a moral obligation to protect its country, pointing to warning signs that Russia is increasing nuclear capabilities.

By the same token, UK SMEs have an obligation to protect their customers. Those that turn a blind eye to potential threats could well pay a heavy price in the future. They would be better served by confronting the issue and creating IT security jobs with personnel trained in defending against, and handling, threats that come their way.