In a significant move towards enhancing security and resilience in technology, British and French researchers have announced a collaborative effort to bolster the robustness of tools and systems that support critical national infrastructure (CNI). This partnership aims to address security vulnerabilities faced by sectors such as utilities and emergency services that are vital for the functioning of society.
Strengthening Critical National Infrastructure
The collaboration was revealed during a state visit by French President Emmanuel Macron and encompasses a range of technologies, particularly positioning, navigation, and timing (PNT) systems. These systems play an indispensable role in various sectors, from energy distribution to transportation and financial transactions. Disruptions to these systems can trigger widespread repercussions across society, as highlighted by the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, where Russian forces have reportedly targeted PNT systems through signal jamming tactics. The UK’s Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT) emphasized that the need for robust PNT systems has never been clearer given the rising threats from hostile state actors.
“France and the UK both have huge ambitions for technology to boost economic growth and strengthen national security,” stated Peter Kyle, the UK’s science and technology secretary. He emphasized the importance of collaboration with France as a strategic partner in facing forthcoming challenges, indicating that this partnership is a modern embodiment of the historical Entente cordiale.
GPS Backup Through Enhanced Technology
One of the key initiatives under this agreement is the exploration of enhanced long-range radio navigation (e-Loran). This technology is designed to serve as a backup for the Global Positioning System (GPS), utilizing ground-based radio towers to deliver reliable navigation services even in instances where satellite systems are compromised. The concept of e-Loran is grounded in hyperbolic navigation, a method where receivers determine their locations based on the timing of signals received from various locations. This could prove invaluable in situations where GPS signals are obstructed or manipulated, as the reliance on satellite technology continues to grow.
According to the National Physical Laboratory, e-Loran has demonstrated competitive accuracy with GPS, positioning it as a potentially life-saving alternative in critical situations. The operational integrity of GPS itself is maintained by the United States Space Force, making a reliable backup particularly crucial in the face of increasing threats. The development of e-Loran could serve to mitigate risks in transportation, telecommunications, and emergency services, providing a safety net for essential services that rely heavily on accurate navigation and timing signals.
Broadening the Scope Beyond Cybersecurity
The Entente Technologique extends its focus beyond cybersecurity measures to include advancements in supercomputing. A formal partnership has emerged between the Bristol Centre for Supercomputing and France’s Grand équipement national de calcul intensif. This collaboration aims to enhance both nations’ high-performance computing capabilities, fostering innovation in artificial intelligence (AI) and other computational technologies.
Through this partnership, the UK and France intend to not only exchange best practices in AI development but also to accelerate breakthroughs that can have transformative impacts on public services. The UK’s AI Opportunities Action Plan will serve as a foundational guideline for these enhancements.
During the joint visit of Kyle and Macron, three additional agreements were signed at Imperial College London involving various prestigious institutions, including University College London and the University of Oxford. These agreements aim to further research initiatives between the two nations and leverage their respective strengths in technology.
Private sector collaborations were also highlighted, showcasing partnerships such as that between Synthesia and French sports retailer Decathlon. They are working on AI-driven solutions to improve customer interactions and operational efficiency. Moreover, Thales, a prominent French aerospace and defense company, plans to invest £40 million into a UK-based AI accelerator called CortAIx, reinforcing the trend of cross-border investment in technological advancements.
Market and Global Implications
This collaboration between the UK and France arrives at a crucial moment where the need for secure and resilient technology infrastructure is more pertinent than ever. The implications are not only national but also extend to global strategies for managing technological threats and ensuring public safety. As both nations contribute their unique strengths and resources, the resultant innovations are likely to shape the future of critical infrastructure and technology security.
In conclusion, the strengthened relationship between British and French researchers signifies a proactive approach to countering emerging cybersecurity threats and enhancing the robustness of essential systems. By investing in technologies like e-Loran and fostering academic and private sector collaborations, these nations are not merely responding to current challenges, but are also setting the stage for future resilience against a multitude of threats.