In our increasingly complex and interconnected world, wars are fought not only on the battlefield, but within the infrastructure that supports our society. To address these challenges, engineers must adopt a ‘secure by design’ approach that identifies risks from the outset.

Just as cyberattacks extend threats to a new digital domain, so too is climate change reshaping the physical landscape. Militaries must seek to eliminate their own carbon emissions—often the most significant of any government activity—while preparing for climate-driven catastrophe and conflict. The changing environment will bring new operational challenges, but the development of electric vehicles may allow for more efficient logistics.

Engineers can help safeguard infrastructure through vulnerability analysis. They can support innovative start-ups, as they develop emissions-free equipment that can be used by militaries. And, they can bring new, diverse, mindsets and experiences to national security challenges, offering new ways to understand and respond to threats.

David Clark, Global Defence Lead and VP Aerospace & Defence, UK&E, Atkins

Richard Gutsell, Programme Director, Atkins

Tony Burgess, Account Director, Strategic Command, Atkins

Neha Bhasin, Senior Consultant, Atkins

Atkins, part of the SNC-Lavalin Group, is one of the world’s most respected design, engineering and project management consultancies. Employing over 18,000 people across the UK, North America, Middle East and Africa, Asia Pacific and Europe, Atkins utilities the latest technology to deliver major capital projects, and provide expert consultancy for clients across the energy, transportation and infrastructure sectors.

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