Blockchain is all set to enter the paradigm of US defense owing to its amazing property of being immutable and impenetrable as a network. The traditional networks have often come under the scanner for their failure to provide full proof protection against all kinds of cyber attacks. Military establishments across the globe seek complete protection from all kinds of malicious attacks and loopholes in existing networks. Blockchain has emerged as one of the most reliable and diligent platforms capable of withstanding cyber attacks and prevent any modifications in the stored data. All this is owed to the unique decentralized structure of blockchain technology networks having unmatched security and scalability.

Digital modernization is part of the US Government’s overall strategy to align modern military requirements with security, safety and high scalability. On the 12th of July, the Department of Defense released plans for a digital modernization program which has been termed as the 

‘DoD Information Resource Management Strategic Plan FY19-23’

The DOD’s research wing DARPA is already engaged in two experimental and exploratory projects. They are primarily focused on cyber security to establish an impenetrable network for the US defense forces. The primary objective of researching and understanding the nuances of the blockchain networks is intended to assist the command and control centers, the ministry of defense offices and the Pentagon. DARPA (Defense Advanced Research Project Agency) is confident about the capabilities of blockchain networks considering its unique capabilities in terms of full proof network security.

Some of the major advantages of blockchain over centralized networks

• The architecture of blockchain networks is completely different from the traditional centralized networks which are dependent on a simple server client framework. These architectures provide more protection against cyber attacks especially critical defense establishments like that of US defense.
• The entire spectrum of the blockchain centralized network is immutable making it simply impenetrable from the perspective of the information stored over the blockchain. It is evident that the defense planners would seek a platform which is much secured against all kinds of external threats.

• The decentralized structure completely eliminates the risk of single point failures and acts as a natural deterrent against cyber attacks. Single point failures run the risk of maligning the entire network.

In short, the decision of DARPA to bring blockchain in its spectrum is a green signal for the development of blockchain technology across the world. Apart from banks and financial organizations, blockchain will find a place in several critical areas of governance, security and administration.

Leading companies across the globe specializing in blockchain technology like IBM and HashCash are already conversant with the requirements and challenges of the defense industry. IBM has already made its mark in the defense and aerospace industry with AI driven technology. They are delivering cognitive computing solutions to its clients. HashCash is in the process of developing, enriching and nurturing critical technologies which would of critical importance to areas like defense. HashCash published an article on the subject which revolves around a stringent vetting to filter the legitimate people to feed data into weapons systems. The immutable nature of blockchain networks brings immense possibilities and scope for collaborations with companies like HashCash Consultants. The database of such advanced weapons systems’ command and control architecture can be rechecked and authenticated by the right parties. This provides a dual protection envelope on advanced weapons systems, computer systems, firmware and command communication centers.