Surpassing the Cloud Threshold in Aerospace and Defense
RESEARCH REPORT | JULY 2024
5 MINUTE READ
Summary
In our survey, every aerospace and defense executive ranging from an analyst to a senior commander agrees that emerging technologies are pivotal in driving a more expansive and forward-looking vision.
These organizations are firmly moving toward a cloud-powered future as a core element of their technology strategy.
They are adopting a mix of cloud solutions to meet their business objectives while upholding stringent security and compliance requirements.
This "Cloud Continuum" serves as a critical foundation, providing the agility and flexibility necessary to innovate and thrive in an industry that is rapidly evolving.
Although aerospace and defense organizations have been slower than others in adopting cloud technologies in the past, that trend is rapidly shifting in the contemporary times. These organizations are now overcoming security challenges with secure, compliant cloud solutions and recognizing the advantages of hybrid cloud approaches. This Cloud Continuum seamlessly integrates various infrastructures, devices, and data, accelerating their strategic goals. It is paving the way for a new era of innovation, not only in aerospace and defense products but also in the way companies design, deliver, and support them.
Hybrid cloud as the emerging preference
Cloud-based capabilities are gaining significant traction in the aerospace and defense sectors, which also lead in hybrid-cloud adoption rates. While organizations can utilize the public cloud for standard functions, most of their IT demands require a tailored combination of solutions. This customized approach necessitates strong governance and management across the enterprise to ensure it delivers optimal value. Fortunately, there are numerous tools and strategies available to effectively manage these hybrid and multi-cloud environments.
Modern cloud is secure
Moreover, previous concerns about cloud security, once viewed as significant barriers, are diminishing. Organizations are increasingly recognizing cloud security as an asset, with industry leaders demonstrating its ability to enhance security while mitigating risks. The key security benefits of cloud adoption include:
Enhanced information control for collaboration:
Cloud platforms enable seamless collaboration across organizational and geographic boundaries, without the need to replicate or transfer sensitive information outside of an organization’s secure environment.Cost-effective zero-trust implementation:
Cloud solutions help reduce the cost of operating in a zero-trust framework by integrating zero-trust capabilities, while enabling micro-segmentation to protect critical assets.Faster compliance and resilience:
Cloud-native services provide built-in security controls and enable accelerated backup, recovery, and restoration of compromised systems, enhancing overall security compliance and resilience.
Going beyond financial gains
The financial benefits supported by the economies of scale offered by cloud service providers (CSPs) continue to be a major incentive for companies across various sectors. However, the aerospace and defense industry's stringent security requirements have historically posed challenges for these organizations in leveraging such advantages. Fortunately, aerospace and defense companies now have access to CSP offerings tailored to meet their specific regulatory, security, and operational needs. This access allows them to transition from substantial capital expenditures to more adaptable cash flow models. As they progress on their cloud transformation journey, these companies are capitalizing on the advantages of cloud technology to achieve essential business outcomes beyond mere financial gains. These outcomes include:
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Cloud-enabled solutions enhance the potential of traditional workspaces, fostering a flexible environment that aligns with evolving technologies. This adaptability not only supports current workforce needs but also attracts and retains top talent by offering an innovative and dynamic work experience.
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Empowering remote workers minimizes the necessity for physical office space, thereby reducing the environmental impact of commuting and lowering associated infrastructure costs. This shift contributes significantly to achieving sustainability objectives while promoting a more eco-friendly work culture.
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AI, automation, and complementary technologies such as 5G, augmented reality (AR), high-performance computing (HPC), and the Internet of Things (IoT) enhance connectivity and collaboration throughout the extended enterprise. This technological synergy fosters a culture of innovation, driving forward-thinking solutions and enabling organizations to stay competitive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
Are you ready for the transformation?
As the adoption of cloud technology accelerates and scales, the benefits grow correspondingly. Embracing a fast-paced and expansive approach is crucial. However, aerospace and defense companies must also evaluate their entire architecture, viewing each component as a facilitator of their overarching business strategy. Cultivating a cloud-first mindset across the organization is equally important. To fully harness the potential of the Cloud Continuum, aerospace and defense leaders should:
Establish a Cloud-Enabled IT Architecture:
Create an architecture that integrates seamlessly with the business strategy, highlighting its value and impact on growth and profitability.Develop a Comprehensive Transformation Plan:
Formulate a cloud-enabled transformation strategy that incorporates security and governance to ensure a resilient and secure business environment.Adopt an Agile Business Strategy:
Embrace new technologies and flexible approaches to shape the future trajectory of aerospace and defense organizations.
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