The Royal Navy is set to conduct its first large-scale cyber war games, named Information Warrior 17, as part of the major Nato exercise Joint Warrior. The drills, taking place from 26 March to 6 April in and around Scotland, will involve artificial intelligence (AI) to test the protection of warships and submarines against cyber attacks.
The exercise aims to 'set the foundations' for future cyber warfare, according to the Royal Navy, which stated that as enemies become more technologically advanced, the navy must evolve to counter these threats. Key elements include developing a 'ship's mind' using AI to enable fast, complex decisions automatically, enhancing safety and effectiveness in combat situations.
Information Warrior 17 will also test defences against cyber attacks on combat systems, communications, and power and propulsion controls. It will utilise cutting-edge computing, unmanned aerial vehicles, open-source intelligence, and satellite imagery to enrich situational awareness.
Joint Warrior, held twice yearly, involves thousands of personnel from army, navy, and air force. This spring's iteration includes units from Denmark, Belgium, Estonia, France, Germany, Netherlands, Norway, Spain, Sweden, and the US. Air crews will operate from RAF Lossiemouth and HMS Gannet, with live firing exercises at Cape Wrath.
Last year's autumn Joint Warrior featured Unmanned Warrior, the navy's first major drone training exercise, with over 50 vehicles and systems. The upcoming cyber-focused drills mark a significant step in integrating information warfare into Nato's defensive capabilities.
