Securing the UK’s Borders and Maritime Domains: Why Integrated Intelligence and Technology Are Essential

Guest blog by Matt Horne, Director of Intelligence and Investigations at Clue Software and Chair of the techUK National Security Committee #NatSec2025

Matthew Horne

Director Intelligence and Investigations, Clue Software

The United Kingdom’s economic prosperity and national security hinge on maintaining secure and efficient borders. Yet, as an island nation navigating a rapidly evolving global landscape, the challenges facing our borders and maritime security are growing in both scale and complexity. From increased irregular migration across the English Channel to sophisticated organised crime networks exploiting global trade routes for drugs, weapons, and human trafficking, the threats are more diverse and technologically advanced than ever before.

Traditional border enforcement methods alone can no longer keep pace with these evolving risks. Securing nearly 8,000 miles of coastline demands a more agile, intelligence-driven approach - one that emphasises collaboration, technology, and forward-looking strategies. That’s why the UK government’s creation of the Border Security Command marks a vital step forward. By improving multi-agency coordination and international cooperation, the command is designed to identify threats early, disrupting illicit activities before they reach UK shores.

At the heart of this transformation is the critical role of integrated intelligence and technology. Cutting-edge surveillance systems, advanced AI-powered data analytics, and interoperable intelligence platforms are breaking down traditional silos between agencies, enabling a “single version of the truth.” This seamless flow of real-time intelligence accelerates decision-making and empowers law enforcement, defence, and national security teams to respond more effectively to threats ranging from human smuggling and drug trafficking to state-sponsored hybrid operations.

Moreover, digital transformation in the national security ecosystem supports greater resilience against insider threats and emerging vulnerabilities. As adversaries increasingly leverage technologies like artificial intelligence to evade detection and disrupt critical infrastructure, it’s imperative that the UK’s security sector continues to innovate rapidly, investing in solutions that are accessible and inclusive across agencies.

This integration of intelligence and technology does more than protect our borders - it drives economic growth. A flourishing UK security sector that embraces innovation attracts accelerated capital flows, fuels job creation, and strengthens Britain’s position as a global leader in security technologies. The synergy between national security and economic prosperity has never been clearer.

To explore these challenges and solutions in greater depth, we invite you to read our full report, Securing the UK’s Maritime and Border Domains: The Imperative for Integrated Intelligence. The report provides a detailed analysis of the threat landscape, highlights key technological advancements, and outlines the critical importance of multi-agency cooperation.

Additionally, watch our accompanying video showcasing how our software solution enables seamless intelligence sharing and rapid response capabilities - empowering the UK to stay ahead of emerging threats.

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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