Driving Digital Transformation in Cyber to Strengthen National Security

As part of National Security Impact Days 2025, Leidos is proud to share how we are supporting digital transformation across the national security ecosystem, with a focus on innovation in cyber.

Cybersecurity continues to evolve rapidly, and with it, the way national security operates. The latest developments in cyber show how digital change can deliver faster, more informed decisions, improve inclusivity across the workforce, and prepare us for the emerging technologies that will shape the years ahead.

Making transformation accessible

For Leidos, digital transformation starts with people. We believe the best technology is only as strong as the teams behind it. That means investing in tools and platforms that are easy to use, adaptable, and inclusive.

In cyber, this often means bridging the gap between technical and non-technical teams. We aim to make complex systems understandable to all users - not just data analysts or IT professionals. It also means ensuring that diverse voices are part of the conversation, from early careers talent to experienced professionals entering the cyber field from other sectors.

Across national security, we’re seeing a stronger focus on inclusion. Whether through tailored training, simplified digital interfaces, or more accessible data, transformation is becoming something everyone can engage with, not just specialists. That shift is helping to build a more resilient and agile workforce.

To support this, Leidos champions initiatives that make cyber careers more accessible, including for veterans, as one of the ‘100 great British employers of veterans’. Inclusive growth is a foundation for long-term capability, working together with collaboration, dedication, and a mission-focus.

Supporting better decision-making

One of the biggest opportunities digital transformation brings to cyber is the ability to make smarter, faster decisions. The volume and complexity of today’s threat environment with state and non-state actors using artificial intelligence, as well as attempts to hack into infrastructure means that national security organisations need real-time insight, not just data, but intelligence they can act on. AI-powered cyber threats are now a top concern for senior risk executives and managers, making this imperative.

Legacy systems are also a challenge, as they face the cyber environment of today for which they were never designed. AI has also significantly altered the threat landscape, but it also offers some of the most powerful tools that we have to fight back. Machine learning models can identify anomalies faster than traditional methods, adapt to new threat patterns, and support analysts by filtering vast amounts of data into focused, actionable insight.

But alongside the technology, we’re also focused on trust. Decision-making tools must be transparent, ethical, and accountable. Having recently been awarded a contract to support NHS Supply Chain with their cybersecurity by ensuring 24/7 oversight and compliance, we are helping partners implement clear frameworks that ensure AI and data tools are used with integrity.

What’s next?

Innovation in cyber is continuous. From automation and autonomous systems, the technologies we’re working with today will define the next generation of national security capabilities.

This rapid pace of change brings great opportunity, but also complexity. National security stakeholders are now planning not just for the threats of today, but for those still emerging. Threat actors are evolving, and so must our defences and capabilities.

The challenge is not just technical readiness, but operational integration. Systems must be interoperable, agile, and able to adapt as threats change. Leidos is helping public sector organisations move towards more flexible, collaborative, and resilient environments.

None of this can be done in isolation. One of the strongest themes emerging across the sector - and one we actively support - is cross-sector collaboration. Government, industry, academia, and the third sector all have a role to play. Building trust and transparency across the ecosystem leads to faster adoption and more sustainable impact.

We also support national and regional initiatives aimed at developing the next generation of cyber talent. This includes working with universities, apprenticeships, and schools to help create more pathways into cyber, and ensure the workforce of the future reflects the diversity of the communities it serves.

Creating long-term value

Digital transformation in cyber isn’t just about tools, but it’s about outcomes. When done well, it improves national security, protects people and systems, and creates long-term social and economic value.

It supports faster public services, strengthens resilience at the local and national level, and helps ensure the UK remains prepared for the challenges ahead.

At Leidos, we’re proud to be contributing to that effort. Working alongside public sector partners, we’re committed to helping shape and defend a digital future that’s secure and effective.

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National Security Programme activities

techUK’s National Security programme leads the debate on emerging technologies which present opportunities to strengthen UK national security. Through a variety of market engagement and policy activities we assess the capability of these technologies against various national security threats. Visit the programme page here