The Black Sea region, a vital maritime corridor, faces an escalating wave of cybersecurity threats that endanger both regional and international security. As digital technologies increasingly integrate into maritime operations, vulnerabilities to cyberattacks in the region are exacerbated by ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly with the involvement of major powers like Russia, China, and Iran. This article offers an analysis of the maritime cybersecurity landscape in the Black Sea, evaluating the capabilities of the littoral states and identifying the key actors responsible for cyber intrusions. Through case studies and examining state-sponsored cyber operations, the research highlights the challenges posed by hybrid warfare in the region. The article also assesses the current policy frameworks and regional cooperation efforts aimed at countering these threats. It concludes by offering actionable recommendations, including the development of robust cybersecurity strategies, enhanced regional collaboration, and the leveraging of emerging technologies to safeguard maritime infrastructure. These measures are essential to preserving stability, protecting global trade routes, and reinforcing NATO’s strategic interests in the Black Sea.
BT - Information & Security: An International Journal DO - https://doi.org/10.11610/isij.5509 IS - 2 N2 -The Black Sea region, a vital maritime corridor, faces an escalating wave of cybersecurity threats that endanger both regional and international security. As digital technologies increasingly integrate into maritime operations, vulnerabilities to cyberattacks in the region are exacerbated by ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly with the involvement of major powers like Russia, China, and Iran. This article offers an analysis of the maritime cybersecurity landscape in the Black Sea, evaluating the capabilities of the littoral states and identifying the key actors responsible for cyber intrusions. Through case studies and examining state-sponsored cyber operations, the research highlights the challenges posed by hybrid warfare in the region. The article also assesses the current policy frameworks and regional cooperation efforts aimed at countering these threats. It concludes by offering actionable recommendations, including the development of robust cybersecurity strategies, enhanced regional collaboration, and the leveraging of emerging technologies to safeguard maritime infrastructure. These measures are essential to preserving stability, protecting global trade routes, and reinforcing NATO’s strategic interests in the Black Sea.
PY - 2024 SE - 113 SP - 113 EP - 132 T2 - Information & Security: An International Journal TI - Navigating Uncharted Waters: Tackling Maritime Cybersecurity Challenges in the Black Sea Region VL - 55 ER -