Why do we need digital threads for the multi-domain battlespace?

If the defence sector is to move to a state where digital capability can maximise our opportunities, reduce our risk, and deter our adversaries, then we must transform. And, against the backdrop of such a complex defence landscape, that transformation is reliant on our ability to harness the right skills and data.

Let’s look at the data angle in a bit more detail: more than half (55%) of defence organisations confirmed in our recent report, Data in Defence: Weaving Digital Threads Across Multiple Domains, that failing to govern and use data in the right way would lead to an inability to solve the most complex challenges our society faces.

Drilling down into areas and actions that would be impacted, almost half (48%) agreed this would impact their ability to share insights effectively and securely across their organisation.

Failing to access and leverage information from complementary sources will diminish the overall picture being seen by defence organisations as they come to terms with the multi-domain battlespace. From that back foot, those same organisations would also struggle to make quick decisions and take appropriate action.  The need for synergies, collaboration, and an all-of-ecosystem approach is clear: and there has never been a stronger need for the formulation of digital threads in the multi-domain operations.

Reclaiming a digital advantage in the multi-domain battlespace

The concept of a digital thread can change the picture quickly and dramatically. The notion of a digital thread relies on relevant parties generating, sharing, analysing and benefitting from data as a connected ecosystem. It focuses on ensuring that each individual player has the capacity to innovate where they’re best; thanks to data, insight and ideas that are being contributed from others.

With future battles being fought across multiple domains and with cyber playing an increasingly significant role in that landscape, this merging of intelligence and specialty is the only way to keep ahead of adversaries.

Ultimately, by working together to create and extract optimum potential from these digital threads, the defence sector will be able to make better decisions, at the right time, and to reclaim a critical advantage in the digital age.

Anytime, anyplace, anywhere

Our research also shows that according to 44% of defence organisations, using data more intelligently will help them become more digitally mature as an entity. And while the concept of digital threads in this context has only been pioneered over the past year, there are steps already being taken at the highest level to make them a reality.

The UK government’s Digital Strategy for Defence champions the idea of having secure access to information “anytime, anyplace, anywhere” – a motto that envelops all domains, company headquarters and hybrid or remote workers.

As the defence sector looks to not only keep up, but get ahead of the security and intelligence trajectory, doing so alone is not possible. The weaving of digital threads, forming connections, trusting partners within secure, shared platforms, and bringing together different sources of information is a must.