Strategic Discussion: Cyber is now at the heart of modern warfare. From the Russian invasion of Ukraine to sustained state-backed targeting of critical infrastructure, government and industry now operate within a shared crisis environment. Ukraine has shown that a nation’s Armed Forces are only as strong as the industry supporting them, highlighting the need for governments to work with industry and society to defend the digital homeland.

Aligned with this year’s theme, Accelerating UK Cyber Defence, this workshop welcomes industry leaders to explore how cyber activity evolves during periods of crisis and conflict, and what approaches can strengthen effective collaboration between government and industry.

The session will begin with a short briefing setting out emerging UK Government thinking on cyber in crisis and conflict. Participants will then move into focused small group discussions exploring experiences from previous and current conflict, industry approaches to crisis readiness, and practical models for partnership when cyber activity intersects with wider conflict. This workshop aims to generate real-world insights to refine shared expectations and improve collaboration in future crises between governments and industry.