Podcast Summary: CyberWire Daily – Episode: Scotland’s Position to Lead Cyber and Space

Introduction

In the January 1, 2025 release of CyberWire Daily, hosted by Maria Varmazes from N2K Networks, the focus shifts to Scotland's emerging role at the intersection of cybersecurity and space industries. The episode features an insightful discussion with Sharon Lemak Vincier, an academic specializing in space and cybersecurity. Sharon shares her extensive research on Scotland's potential to lead in securing space-based assets and fostering innovation within this critical sector.

Scotland’s Space Cyber Potential

Sharon Lemak Vincier introduces her report titled "Cybersafe Gateway," which explores Scotland's unique position in the European space sector. Scotland boasts a robust satellite manufacturing industry, surpassing other European nations in satellite production. Sharon emphasizes the importance of integrating cybersecurity "by design" into satellite development to ensure resilience against emerging threats.

"Scotland builds more satellites than anywhere else in Europe, and it makes complete sense to build cyber secure by design into that." [03:21]

She highlights that Scotland’s historical expertise in satellite manufacturing provides a competitive advantage. However, the report reveals that the commercial space sector in Scotland has untapped potential for enhancing cybersecurity, particularly among small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

Challenges for SMEs in Cybersecurity

A significant portion of the discussion centers around the challenges SMEs face in implementing robust cybersecurity measures. Sharon points out that SMEs often view cybersecurity as a cost center rather than a profit center, leading to underinvestment in essential security practices. This perspective hampers the ability of these businesses to build a more secure ecosystem for the space sector.

"If you're building satellites, you should really be thinking about the cyber secure by design built into that." [03:21]

She also addresses the language barriers between the space and cybersecurity industries, which complicate collaboration and integration. Sharon suggests that bridging this gap is crucial for fostering a unified approach to securing space assets.

Sharon’s Conceptual Framework: Think Like Spies, Build Like Astronauts, Innovate Like Entrepreneurs

To address the existing challenges, Sharon introduces a new conceptual framework designed to make cybersecurity more engaging and integral to the space industry. She proposes that cybersecurity professionals approach their work with the mindset of spies, astronauts, and entrepreneurs. This multifaceted approach aims to:

1. Think Like Spies: Anticipate and identify potential threat vectors by continuously scanning the horizon and identifying blind spots.
2. Build Like Astronauts: Develop resilient systems capable of withstanding harsh and unpredictable environments, ensuring mission-critical operations remain functional.
3. Innovate Like Entrepreneurs: Foster disruptive innovation and bring new products and services to market that address emerging threats in the space domain.

"We need to think like spies, build like astronauts, and innovate like entrepreneurs." [08:38]

Sharon believes this framework will rejuvenate the perception of cybersecurity, making it a more attractive and dynamic field within the space industry.

Women in Leadership in Space Cyber

Sharon also discusses her forthcoming report on female leadership within the space cybersecurity intersection. She highlights the underrepresentation of women in both sectors and the unique perspectives they bring to leadership roles. Sharon argues that increasing female leadership will drive innovation and enhance the sector's overall resilience.

"The sector needs disruption right at the intersection. We need new ways of thinking, and women are bringing a whole diverse strength to that intersection." [18:07]

She emphasizes that inclusion benefits everyone by challenging existing norms and fostering a more diverse and effective workforce.

Tartan Spacesuit Initiative

In a lighter yet culturally significant endeavor, Sharon shares her project of integrating Scottish heritage into the space industry by designing the first tartan spacesuit. Registered as "Vincere Adashtra," this initiative aims to curate Scotland's space heritage and promote national pride within the burgeoning space sector.

"I've created a tartan spacesuit... hoping to have it ready for space conferences in 2020." [21:30]

This innovative project underscores Scotland's commitment to blending tradition with cutting-edge technology, symbolizing the nation's leadership in space cybersecurity.

Conclusions and Recommendations

Sharon concludes by advocating for Scotland to capitalize on its strengths in satellite manufacturing and cybersecurity to become a global leader in securing space assets. She recommends:

• Maximizing Potential at the Space-Cyber Intersection: Leveraging Scotland's historical expertise and SMEs to build a robust cybersecurity framework integrated into space technologies.
• Fostering Collaboration: Encouraging synergy between commercial and military sectors to enhance security measures and innovation.
• Promoting Inclusion and Diversity: Elevating female leadership to drive diverse and innovative solutions within the industry.
• Adopting the New Framework: Implementing the "Think Like Spies, Build Like Astronauts, Innovate Like Entrepreneurs" approach to reinvigorate the cybersecurity landscape in space.

Key Takeaways

• Scotland's Leadership Potential: With a strong foundation in satellite manufacturing, Scotland is well-positioned to lead in space cybersecurity.
• Integration Challenges: Overcoming language barriers and shifting the perception of cybersecurity from a cost to a profit center are crucial for SMEs.
• Innovative Framework: Sharon’s multifaceted approach offers a fresh perspective to make cybersecurity more dynamic and integral to the space industry.
• Importance of Diversity: Increasing female leadership is essential for fostering innovation and resilience in space cybersecurity.
• Cultural Integration: Initiatives like the tartan spacesuit symbolize the harmonious blend of tradition and innovation driving Scotland's space sector forward.

Notable Quotes

• "We need to think like spies, build like astronauts, and innovate like entrepreneurs." – Sharon Lemak Vincier [08:38]
• "If you're building satellites, you should really be thinking about the cyber secure by design built into that." – Sharon Lemak Vincier [03:21]
• "The sector needs disruption right at the intersection. We need new ways of thinking, and women are bringing a whole diverse strength to that intersection." – Sharon Lemak Vincier [18:07]

Conclusion

This episode of CyberWire Daily offers a comprehensive exploration of Scotland's strategic position in the rapidly evolving domains of cybersecurity and space. Sharon Lemak Vincier's research and innovative initiatives provide valuable insights into how Scotland can harness its existing strengths, address industry challenges, and foster an inclusive, forward-thinking environment to lead the global space cybersecurity landscape.