The cyber threat landscape has grown in scale, sophistication and complexity due to advancements in AI. This evolution can be observed across multiple threat vectors, including cyber-enabled fraud, supply chain attacks, malicious insiders, and disinformation. To fully assess their impact, it is essential to consider their synergistic effects. Meanwhile, the opportunities in cybersecurity are both formidable and exciting, provided the associated risks are properly addressed. Apart from the automation, evolution, and scaling of cyber defence, it is relevant to consider the substantial potential for reducing the attack surface and disrupting adversarial behaviour. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

With a renewed focus on nuclear stockpiling among certain state actors, there is an urgent need to identify successful pathways for nuclear disarmament. History has demonstrated that this is an achievable goal, with important lessons for contemporary security discourse and policy. The potential lessons extend beyond purely security dividends, with potential contributions to economic and environmental discourses as well. The case presented in this contribution - titled at different times the HEU Deal, the Grand Uranium Bargain, or Megatons to Megawatts M2M - was the product of sustained cooperation between enemies (USA - USSR/Russia) and multiple stakeholders. It was an early, still little-known, yet useful component of just transitions to climate-compatible societies. The positive results of this actual cooperative disarmament case significantly contribute to the moral argument for nuclear disarmament with a practical, almost utilitarian rationale. The larger framework of transitions to climate-compatible societies creates a broader motivational framework that must be employed to properly evaluate the results of actual nuclear disarmament cases and the need for sustained cooperation. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

The global energy transition faces a fundamental challenge: how to accelerate renewable energy deployment while maintaining systemic stability and social equity. This research examines the principle of "as fast as possible, as slow as necessary" through a qualitative analysis of governance approaches, social acceptance mechanisms, and case studies from Latin America and Denmark. Using literature review and comparative case study methodology, we analyse how different governance models influence transition pacing and outcomes. Our findings reveal that hybrid governance models, combining centralised policy frameworks with decentralised community participation, offer the most viable pathway for balancing rapid decarbonization with systemic stability. The study demonstrates that social acceptance is a critical determinant of feasible transition pace, with energy communities serving as effective mechanisms for redistributing power and enhancing participation. Denmark's experience illustrates the successful integration of high renewable energy shares through consistent policy frameworks and community engagement. At the same time, Latin American cases highlight the importance of addressing distributional justice and cultural considerations. The research concludes that optimal energy transition pacing requires differentiated approaches across sectors, sequenced implementation strategies, and continuous adaptation to local contexts. These insights provide a framework for policymakers seeking to navigate the complex trade-offs between speed and stability in energy transitions. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

India’s climate action trajectory holds immense implications for both national resilience and global climate stability. As the world’s most populous country, with a rapidly expanding economy and a young, skilled workforce, India finds itself at a strategic crossroads. This essay evaluates India’s current mitigation efforts, adaptation vulnerabilities, and the global implications of its energy and climate choices. With significant socio-economic disparities, geographical exposures, and political constraints, India presents both a risk and an opportunity for the global climate regime. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

Artificial Intelligence is transforming the functioning and interaction of weapon systems and changing how battles are fought. That said, there are still many unresolved questions regarding the safety and security of AI systems. The core concern is that military organisations must adopt a multifaceted approach to effectively manage AI-associated risks, combining technical measures with organisational adaptability. This can only be achieved by considering institutional mechanisms as well as software and hardware in the context of AI development. By addressing these challenges, military organisations can navigate the evolving landscape of AI more securely while enhancing their operational efficiency and effectiveness. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

Artificial Intelligence is transforming warfare on land, in the air, and above all—for this paper—at sea. AI is not only enhancing non-kinetic dimensions, such as information dominance, cyber operations, and decision-making processes, but is also amplifying the effectiveness of kinetic means. Recent conflicts have demonstrated how AI-enabled systems are used to deter, degrade, and destroy enemy assets, reshaping both the physical and virtual battlefields. This change necessitates a new perspective on military operations, where AI and digital technology are seamlessly integrated from planning to logistics. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

This study examines the relationship between the level of automation in warfare and combat effectiveness, focusing on unmanned combat systems (UCS). As the Republic of Korea faces a significant decline in the availability of military personnel due to demographic changes, UCS adoption has become a critical priority. While UCSs are anticipated to surpass human combatants in operational efficiency, they require substantial maintenance and repair resources. Using an agent-based model adapted from ecological frameworks, this study simulates conflict scenarios involving two opposing groups. Simulation results show that UCS units consistently outperform human combatants and play a substantial role in reducing the duration of conflict. These findings highlight the complex interplay between UCS, human soldiers, and maintenance personnel, suggesting that simply augmenting the combat effectiveness of human troops does not necessarily guarantee victory. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

This paper explores the persistent tensions within U.S. security cooperation, where efforts to build partner capacity often collide with the realities of sovereignty, hierarchy, and risk. Although designed to enhance global stability, security cooperation initiatives frequently impose on partner autonomy, revealing the hierarchical nature of the international system beneath the rhetoric of equal partnership. Drawing from strategic theory and operational experience, the paper introduces the "security cooperation dilemma," highlighting the twin fears of entrapment for the dominant power and abandonment for the partner. It criticises existing Department of Defense (DOD) frameworks, especially the Significant Security Cooperation Initiative Construct (SSCIC), for inadequately addressing political willingness and absorptive capacity. The analysis argues that political commitment is a function of risk, particularly physical and political, and should be observed through tangible actions rather than verbal assurances. The study concludes by advocating for a recalibration of security cooperation practices, emphasising strategic patience, realistic timelines, and a rigorous focus on genuine political commitment and risk absorption as prerequisites for sustainable security cooperation success. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

With each passing day, the amount of verified information regarding violations of international humanitarian law and human rights by the Russian Federation continues to grow. One of the most striking examples of the Russian Federation’s disregard for its international obligations is its treatment of Ukrainian prisoners of war (POWs). These violations include executions, torture, denial of access to fair trials, intelligence operations targeting their relatives, and more. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

Taiwan must rethink its defence strategy due to a rising threat from China’s overwhelming military and industrial capabilities. However, Taiwan faces critical imbalances in troop strength, defence budgets, and technological infrastructure, emphasising the need for an asymmetric approach to deterrence. In this respect, Taiwan could draw lessons from Ukraine’s civilian-led drone innovation and Israel’s integrated civil preparedness to formulate policies that harness its semiconductor leadership and technological expertise. By empowering civil society through coordinated training, decentralised drone production, and dual-use infrastructure, Taiwan can transform its vulnerabilities into a resilient defence ecosystem, capable of countering China’s strategic advantages. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

In a less predictable operational environment, resilience and agility are vital requirements for military sustainment. To demonstrate this, we highlight the shortcomings in military supply chains and identify solutions and practices adopted by various organisations to address recognised challenges. Furthermore, there is a need to understand more about new practices and innovations in the business environment that impact supply chains. In conclusion, we highlight several key aspects that military leaders must address to enhance supply chain resilience and agility. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

Constantly increasing demands for efficiency, effectiveness, and resilience of military operations are interrelated with increasing military energy demands, particularly with the use of energy storage solutions. This paper provides an overview of the emerging trends in military energy use and management, along with the evolving needs for energy storage, in line with the novel developments of battery energy storage systems. The research considerations focus on a wide range of energy storage applications, ranging from soldier energy solutions to powering military bases or platforms. The study highlights future energy storage innovations, including next-generation batteries, hybrid energy solutions, or other energy storage innovation trends that will enhance the military's abilities to operate in dynamic environments.   »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

This article examines how modern training simulators can aid in teaching future Navy officers. Traditional teaching methods often prioritise classroom learning with limited hands-on practice. This research examines whether the use of realistic simulators can enhance police officers' learning of their job responsibilities. The study utilises various types of simulators to teach essential Navy skills. These include making quick decisions in battle (using the Tactic simulator), safely navigating (with Navigation and River Navigation simulators), using communication systems (with the GMDSS simulator), using weapons (with Infantry Weapons and Navy Artillery simulators), working in the engine room (using the Engine Room simulator), and practising new experiences using Virtual Reality (VR). »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

The emergence of autonomous weapons systems (AWS) represents a clear shift in warfare and raises critical questions about the impact this change will have on soldiers' morale on a 21st-century battlefield. The complex effects that such technology has on military morale are highlighted through historical parallels to previous, similar military innovations and supplemented by analyses of the ongoing drone warfare in the Ukraine War. Narratives surrounding military technologies mould both soldier and morale to defend, a dynamic that is explored through Annens’ tripartite theory of morale. It is made clear that morale is not closely linked to the invention of military technologies themselves but rather to how these technologies are implemented and the narratives that surround them. To bolster future fighting capabilities, these narratives must be actively constructed to face the changing organisations and psychological stresses of military service.   »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation   »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/   »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

Decision-making regarding target engagement, including considerations for scenarios involving the tactical use of nuclear weapons, requires a multilayered, well-structured, predictable, and traceable approach. The integration of AI into such high-stakes scenarios amplifies the need for transparency, aligning decision-making models to trusted tenets and focused training (the 3Ts) in order to avoid the five cognitive pitfalls of overreliance, information overload, groupthink, misperception, and unrecognised systemic bias. For AI to be effectively integrated into Nuclear Command, Control and Communication (NC3) networks, decision makers delegated target engagement authority must have a clear understanding of the capabilities and limitations of the AI system, just as they understand the capabilities and limitations of their other team members. AI is not something to be feared, but it should be approached with a degree of healthy scepticism. The 3T framework provides a useful heuristic for ensuring proper integration and use of AI-enabled NC3 systems and decision-making processes. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

At least since the beginning of the most recent Russian invasion of Ukraine and the massive use of unmanned aerial vehicles, it has become imperative to elaborate potential countermeasures, that is, counter-unmanned aerial systems. Accordingly, based on past and ongoing conflicts – including the war in Ukraine – this paper analyses the impact of technological changes on warfare. Specifically, it takes a closer look at the types of unmanned aerial vehicles deployed on the modern battlefield and how critical infrastructure, soldiers and civilian populations could be protected in the face of these novel threats.   »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

A need for low-cost warfare has emerged from the experiences of several nations in current conflicts. On the one hand, a recent missile and drone attack on Israel was successfully defeated, but at the unsustainable cost of an estimated $1-1.5 billion. Houthi drones, costing $2000 each, were successfully intercepted with Standard Missile-2s (SM-2), which cost $2 million each. On the other hand, the Russian Black Sea fleet was severely degraded by sea drones costing between $250 and $ 350,000 each. There are two consequences deriving from this: There is an urgent need for low-cost systems both in defence (to counter the Houthi-type attacks, for example) and offence (to engage in sea control or with combat drones as an artillery substitute). »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

The progressive integration of artificial intelligence (AI) transforms military command across doctrinal, procedural, and cultural dimensions. AI reshapes the balance between centralisation and decentralisation across command levels. Using Col. John Boyd’s OODA Loop as a generic model of the military decision-making process (MDMP), it is possible to see how AI influences each step of decision-making—from information gathering to tactical execution—and assesses its implications for Mission Command (MC) as a decentralised leadership philosophy. Western militaries, with their longstanding tradition of decentralised decision-making, may be particularly well-positioned to harness AI as a tool of empowerment rather than surveillance. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/

AI-powered autonomous weapons, from advanced drones to robotic soldiers, are reshaping warfare with unmatched speed, precision, and adaptability. Capable of life-and-death decisions, they deliver tactical power and coordination, reducing human risk and amplifying military strength. Intelligent swarming and real-time responses provide a formidable combat edge. However, robust controls are crucial to wield these tools responsibly, to shape the future of warfare with strategic brilliance and caution. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal

Military effectiveness hinges on technological innovation and organisational fitness—the ability to adapt, integrate, and exploit new capabilities. While AI, cyber warfare, and autonomous systems are reshaping conflict, rigid hierarchies and cultural resistance hinder their adoption. Bridging the gap between technological potential and institutional readiness requires decentralised decision-making, strategic alignment, and adaptive structures. Public-private partnerships, phased adoption, and cultural transformation are essential to ensuring military innovation and sustained strategic superiority. »» TDHJ «« » patreon: https://www.patreon.com/thedefencehorizon » donate: https://tdhj.org/about/#donation »» HOME «« » https://tdhj.org/ »» SOCIAL MEDIA «« » X (formerly Twitter): https://x.com/HorizonDefence » Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedefencehorizon.org » Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/thedefencehorizonjournal/ » LinkedIn: The Defence Horizon Journal