Resilient critical infrastructure: the need for public-private collaboration
– Unified International’s role in driving strategic partnerships for security and sustainability
The protection of critical infrastructure (digital and physical) is more urgent than ever due to increasing cyber threats and geopolitical tensions. The Netherlands and the EU are investing in regulations and technology to enhance resilience, such as the ‘Cyber Resilience Act’ and the ‘Law on Promoting Digital Resilience for Businesses’. Collaboration between the government and the private sector remains crucial, as critical infrastructure is often in private hands.
Advanced monitoring, via manned and unmanned platforms as well as satellites, followed by AI-enabled analysis are essential for detecting and countering threats at an early stage. Additionally, Europe must strategically reduce its dependence on foreign technologies and invest in autonomous solutions.
Unified International plays a connecting role in this by understanding both public and private interests and supporting them in developing a joint approach. By facilitating innovation and collaboration, Unified International helps strengthen resilient critical infrastructure that can withstand future threats.
We spoke with Michel van Ierland, Managing Partner at Unified International about this topic and Unified International’s role in it in a short interview.
How can defence and the private sector collaborate more effectively to tackle cyber and physical threats to critical infrastructure?
The responsibility for securing critical infrastructure lies with both the government and private entities, as many assets, such as those in the North Sea, are privately owned. This requires a joint approach, with clear definitions of roles and responsibilities. A shared common operating picture is crucial, which can only be achieved through structured information exchange. This must be widely available to authorized users so that anomalies can be quickly detected and addressed. Currently, various software solutions are available, but the use remains fragmented and need better integration. Monitoring is done using drones, satellites and sensors, but to effectively recognise and respond to threats, a layered and coordinated use of these technologies is necessary.
What are the biggest current threats to our infrastructure, both digital (cyberattacks) and physical (such as sabotage of pipelines or energy networks)?
Critical infrastructure is at risk of disruptions that could have a major impact on energy supply, data traffic and economic stability. Cyberattacks, such as ransomware and state-sponsored threats, are increasing in both frequency and complexity. At the same time, physical threats, such as sabotage of energy networks and undersea cables, pose a real danger. Another challenge is that critical infrastructure is often located in hard-to-reach areas, making damage recovery time-consuming. The Netherlands is also dependent on foreign technology and energy sources, which increases vulnerability in times of geopolitical tension.
Which technological innovations (such as AI, drones, satellite monitoring) help protect infrastructure on land, at sea and in the air?
New technologies, such as AI-driven monitoring and -analysis, advanced satellite surveillance and drones, are playing an increasingly important role in protecting critical infrastructure. These systems help detect anomalies and abnormal patterns in both cyber and physical threats. However, it is essential that t Europe reduce their reliance on foreign technologies to ensure the autonomy and security of these systems.
What are the biggest obstacles to collaboration between businesses and government/defence in protecting critical infrastructure and where are the main bottlenecks?
One of the biggest challenges is the effective sharing of information between businesses and the government. There is often reluctance to share sensitive data, even though a shared threat assessment is crucial for a swift and coordinated response. Additionally, there is a need to invest in digital resilience and redundancy to ensure that infrastructure can withstand disruptions. This highlights a third problem: often responsibilities are fragmented between commercial and multiple government entities: who is responsible for the investments it takes? Finally, long-term vision and structural collaboration are essential in this regard.
What role can Unified International play as a connector between defence and the private sector and how does Unified International help both parties collaborate effectively?
Unified International can act as a bridge between public and private entities by providing insight into each other’s needs and responsibilities, bringing together the right technologies and operational capabilities. It supports impactful, relevant security solutions while ensuring a sustainable investment model that does not disrupt business operations. Unified International facilitates long-term collaboration and reliable agreements with the government, helping stakeholders invest in security while addressing practical challenges.
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* The Cyber Resilience Act is an EU regulation ensuring cybersecurity for digital products through lifecycle security measures and transparency. Source: (EU Digital Strategy)
* The Law on Promoting Digital Resilience for Businesses is a Dutch law helping companies strengthen cybersecurity via government guidance.
