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Cyber threats are becoming more complex and aggressive, driven by rapid technological advances and geopolitical tensions. AI-driven attacks, disinformation campaigns, and infrastructure disruptions now pose strategic risks that require governments to rethink their approach to defence and security.
To explore how governments can strengthen their cybersecurity posture, we spoke with Alex Mathar, a Defence and Security Strategist currently serving as a strategic advisor in the Cyber Division of the Danish Ministry of Defence Acquisition and Logistics Organization (DALO). With over 22 years of experience — from frontline operations in Kosovo, Iraq, and Afghanistan to strategic roles in cyber, diplomacy, and capability development — Alex brings a unique blend of operational insight and strategic foresight. He believes governments must balance rapid technological innovation with strong security frameworks, strengthen public-private partnerships, and learn from successful models like Estonia’s cyber defence strategy. Alex’s insights offer a clear guideline for governments looking to build more resilient and adaptive cyber defences.
Rethinking cyber defence in an era of AI and hybrid threats
Cyber threats are technical challenges and strategic risks that threaten national security and economic stability. Governments must shift from reactive to proactive defence models, embedding security into digital infrastructure and developing flexible systems adapting to evolving threats. While nations like Estonia have made significant progress in building cyber resilience, many governments still struggle to integrate security into their innovation strategies. Drawing from my experience in both operational and strategic defence roles, here’s how governments can strengthen their cyber defences and secure national infrastructure in an era of AI-driven hybrid threats.
Build security into innovation from the start
One of the most significant vulnerabilities in modern infrastructure is that security is often treated as an afterthought. Governments must embed “security by design” into their digital infrastructure to counter increasingly sophisticated cyber attacks. This means establishing rigorous security standards for all public-sector digital projects and ensuring technological innovation doesn’t outpace security readiness. Estonia provides a strong example of this approach. After suffering a wave of cyber attacks in 2007, Estonia developed a robust national cyber security framework that integrates real-time threat monitoring, rapid response protocols, and secure digital identities for its citizens. Denmark and other nations can adopt similar models by embedding security into the DNA of their digital infrastructure — from procurement processes to software development lifecycles.
Strengthen public-private collaboration
Cyber threats are not limited to government systems; private companies control much of the critical infrastructure that underpins national security. Effective cybersecurity requires close collaboration between public and private actors for information-sharing, joint threat response, and innovation. Public-private partnerships should move beyond information exchange to co-creation. Joint cybersecurity task forces, shared intelligence platforms, and integrated training exercises can combine the private sector’s agility with the government’s strategic oversight. Estonia’s success in fostering integrated public-private frameworks demonstrates how this model can accelerate threat response and adaptation.
Learn from Estonia’s success in cyber defence
Estonia has become a leader in cyber resilience because of its early recognition of digital threats. As a frontline state bordering Russia, Estonia invested heavily in building secure digital infrastructure, developing national cyber literacy, and conducting comprehensive crisis simulations. Denmark and other nations can benefit from Estonia’s approach by adopting proactive crisis planning and scenario-based training. For example, Denmark’s strength in maritime security could be enhanced by integrating Estonia’s digital defence expertise into joint exercises and threat intelligence networks. Combining Denmark’s operational strengths with Estonia’s cyber expertise would create a more comprehensive and resilient defence posture.
Balance innovation with security
Governments face a difficult balance between fostering technological innovation and maintaining robust security controls. Fast-paced digital transformation creates opportunities for economic growth and improved services — but also exposes vulnerabilities that state and non-state actors can exploit. The solution lies in adaptive, flexible security frameworks. Governments should implement continuous risk assessment, agile regulatory models, and mandatory security certification processes for all public-sector digital infrastructure. By ensuring that security evolves alongside technological innovation, governments can prevent vulnerabilities from emerging as new systems come online.
Maintain public trust through transparency
Public trust is a critical component of national resilience. Citizens need to have confidence that their government is prepared to handle cyber threats — and that their data and services are secure. Open and transparent communication builds this trust. Governments should provide regular updates on national cybersecurity measures, potential threats, and incident response plans. Estonia’s approach to digital governance, which emphasises open communication and citizen engagement, has strengthened public confidence in its digital infrastructure. Denmark and other nations can adopt similar transparency models to reinforce national resilience.
Build more adaptive and resilient defence systems
Recent large-scale cyberattacks—from ransomware campaigns to state-sponsored infrastructure disruptions—have exposed gaps in national cyber defence systems. The lesson is clear: centralised, static defence models are insufficient. Nations need decentralised, flexible, and redundant systems capable of absorbing and adapting to attacks in real time. This requires real-time monitoring, rapid response capabilities, and continuous scenario-based training. Estonia’s comprehensive crisis simulations provide a model for building adaptive systems that withstand complex and evolving threats.
Leverage Denmark’s maritime expertise with Estonia’s digital strengths
Denmark’s expertise in maritime security and Estonia’s leadership in cyber defence presents a unique opportunity for strategic collaboration. Hybrid threats, including cyberattacks on shipping routes, port infrastructure, and communication networks, are increasingly targeting maritime infrastructure. Joint threat intelligence networks, shared response protocols, and collaborative training exercises could strengthen resilience in both maritime and digital domains. A combined approach would create a more comprehensive defence system capable of addressing physical and digital threats.
Drive innovation through holistic collaboration
Security resilience requires a holistic approach that transcends traditional sector boundaries. Neither governments, industry, nor academia can effectively tackle emerging cyber threats in isolation. To succeed, it is essential to establish integrated ecosystems that support cross-sector collaboration, incentivise innovation, and facilitate effective public-private partnerships. By acting as strategic bridges between government organisations, private industry, defence sectors, and academic institutions, nations can ensure comprehensive cyber defence frameworks that are adaptive and future-ready. By leveraging such holistic ecosystems, Europe can uniquely position itself as a leader in shaping resilient, innovative cybersecurity responses to an uncertain future.
A strategic shift is needed
Cybersecurity is no longer a technical issue — it’s a core element of national security. Governments must adapt to an evolving threat scene where AI-driven attacks, hybrid warfare, and infrastructure disruptions are becoming the norm. The key lies in embedding security into digital innovation, strengthening public-private partnerships, and learning from proven models like Estonia’s cyber defence strategy. Denmark and other nations can lead by combining their operational strengths with adaptive and integrated defence models. A more secure digital future requires strategic foresight, decisive action, and a commitment to long-term resilience.
Disclaimer: These insights represent Alex Mathar’s personal views and do not necessarily reflect the official position of the Danish Defence or any associated governmental organisation.
