Over the past decade, the national security landscape has undergone a significant transformation, driven by the intersection of technology, critical minerals, and energy. Every company operating in the technology space—whether they recognise it or not—is now a national security stakeholder. The reality is that cyber threats, supply chain vulnerabilities, and energy resilience are no longer just government concerns; they are business imperatives. As policy and regulation increasingly intertwine with business operations, companies must proactively navigate this evolving environment. Access Partnership is uniquely positioned to help businesses address these challenges, ensuring compliance, security, and strategic advantage.
The Evolution of National Security Priorities
A decade ago, US national security strategies were primarily shaped by counterterrorism and conventional military threats. However, rapid technological advances and geopolitical shifts have expanded the definition of security. By 2017, the US National Security Strategy explicitly recognised that economic security is national security. Protecting critical technologies, ensuring supply chain resilience, and securing energy independence have become top priorities for governments and corporations alike.
Key Drivers of Change:
- Cybersecurity as a National Imperative – The rise of state-sponsored cyber threats and large-scale ransomware attacks (e.g., the 2024 Salt Typhoon attack on US telecom and 2021 Colonial Pipeline attack) have demonstrated that cyber vulnerabilities can disrupt entire industries and economies. Every tech company, whether a cloud provider, software developer, or hardware manufacturer, is now a target.
- Geopolitical Competition in Technology – China’s dominance in 5G, artificial intelligence, and semiconductors has prompted the US to implement stricter trade policies, including tariffs, export controls, and restrictions on foreign technology investments. Companies must now navigate compliance risks that affect partnerships, investments, and global expansion.
- Supply Chain Vulnerabilities – The pandemic and geopolitical tensions exposed critical weaknesses in global supply chains. Shortages in semiconductors, rare earth elements, and battery materials underscored the need for diversified and secure sourcing strategies. Businesses must be proactive in assessing vulnerabilities and securing alternative supply routes.
- Energy Security and Sustainability – The need for reliable energy to support new technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) is driving a renewed investment in energy supply and grid modernisation. These must be considered against ongoing sustainability objectives, with sizeable potential for the very same tech to support this transition to more efficient and sustainable energy.
Why Every Tech Company Must Think National Security
Regardless of size or industry focus, if a company operates in technology, it is inherently part of the national security landscape. The integration of AI, cloud computing, quantum technology, and IoT across industries means that even start-ups and mid-sized firms are now subject to regulations and oversight that were once reserved for defence contractors. Government scrutiny is expanding, with requirements around data security, cross-border data flows, and critical infrastructure protection affecting a wide range of sectors.
Companies that fail to recognise their role in national security risk falling behind due to regulatory noncompliance, supply chain disruptions, or cybersecurity breaches. Conversely, those that embrace a security-forward strategy can turn these challenges into competitive advantages by demonstrating resilience and trustworthiness to customers, investors, and regulators.
Navigating Geopolitical Risks
The intersection of technology, critical minerals, and energy with national security is reshaping global markets and regulatory frameworks. Companies that once viewed national security as a government concern must now recognise it as a business priority. Understanding the security landscape and taking proactive steps to mitigate risks is no longer optional—it’s a requirement for long-term success.
With deep expertise in policy, regulation, and industry strategy, Access Partnership is the ideal partner for businesses looking to thrive in this environment. By working with us, companies can stay ahead of emerging threats, meet compliance standards, and leverage security as a market differentiator. Get in touch by clicking here to find out more about how we can help your firm turn its challenges into opportunities.
