Cyber-attacks know no borders, and with the transnational nature of digital threats evolving we must work with allies to keep Britain safe.

The ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) Defence Ministers’ Meeting (ADMM) Cybersecurity and Information Centre of Excellence (ACICE) hosted the third Digital Defence Symposium (DDS) in Singapore, bringing together more than 300 senior defence officials, academics, industry experts and international partners from across 35 countries and organisations, to discuss the latest developments in the cybersecurity and information domains, amid challenges presented by emerging technologies and rising geopolitical tensions.

ACICE was established in June 2021, aiming to connect ASEAN countries and other international partners to enhance multilateral cooperation in defence against cyberattacks, disinformation and misinformation. This is achieved through information sharing, and raising awareness and knowledge of potential threats, trends and developments in the cybersecurity and information domains.

At the symposium, the ‘Building Effective Digital Military Forces’ panel saw representatives from the UK, Singapore and Japan – including our Deputy Commander, Lieutenant General Sir Tom Copinger-Symes – discuss how investment, such as training, doctrine, structure, or equipment, can build a capable force that is ready to respond to digital threats.

As collaboration becomes increasingly paramount to defend against modern threats, leaders shared insight into how militaries can use multinational operations and alliances to enhance interoperability and counter digital threats. They also covered how artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous systems, and cyber capabilities can ethically be integrated with human judgement and resilience to create a strong, warfighting ready force.

The Strategic Defence Review outlined a need to align capabilities and defence priorities. As the Command responsible for defending the UK in cyberspace and leading on integrating cyber effects into operational planning, we must work in partnership with our allies and partners to achieve this and continue to put NATO first. However, as this conference has demonstrated, prioritising NATO does not mean focusing solely on it – it also involves strengthening our regional partnerships around the globe.

This symposium offered a platform to do so, ensuring our strong international partnerships within the region, as an ASEAN Dialogue Partner, and wider keep us ahead of our adversaries in an ever-contested digital landscape.