Cross Domain is the glue between the five operational domains

Published
2026-04-16T14:12:42.715+02:00 16 April 2026
Business Digital Intelligence
Location International
The latest in our Power of Perspective series. Richard Byng, Head of Cross Domain at BAE Systems Digital Intelligence, explains how Cross Domain enables collaboration without compromising security
Richard's Perspective

As cyber threats grow in scale and sophistication, the UK and our partners are rightly focused on increasing their cyber resilience whilst enabling collaboration. One of the most effective ways to do that is through Cross Domain technology.

At BAE Systems Digital Intelligence, we understand just how vital this capability has become. Cross Domain Solutions (CDS) enable organisations to connect their most trusted and sensitive systems in a secure and controlled way - ensuring that information moves only where it should, when it should, and under the strictest governance. In environments where compromises can have national level consequences, a high level of assurance is indispensable.

As the Cross Domain Lead at Digital Intelligence, this work is more than a role for me, it’s something I’m genuinely proud to champion. Every day, I see the difference our technology makes. There’s a real sense of purpose in knowing that what we build directly contributes to national security. 

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BAE Systems is one of the main Cross Domain providers in the world, and we’ve been innovating in this space for more than 30 years. That heritage gives our customers confidence that the technology they rely on is proven, robust, and engineered for the most demanding environments. 

I often describe Cross Domain as the glue between the five operational domains: land, sea, air, space, and cyber. Each domain generates vital intelligence, but not all of it should move freely. Our role is to ensure that only the information that needs to flow between those domains actually does, while mitigating or reducing the risk of cyber-attack or data leakage. It’s about enabling collaboration without compromising security. It’s about protecting the mission while empowering the people who deliver it.

Traditionally, our work has centred on defence and national security organisations, but increasingly we’re supporting critical national infrastructure organisations too - helping to protect the essential services people rely on.

What gives me the greatest pride is seeing how our Cross Domain technology can strengthen resilience, protect critical systems, and ensure that the right information reaches the right people at the right time.

In a world where secure connectivity underpins every mission, Cross Domain isn’t just a technical capability, it’s a strategic advantage. And it’s a mission I’m deeply committed to. 

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Richard Byng

Head of Cross Domain EMEA

BAE Systems Digital Intelligence