It is imperative to remain informed about the most recent advancements in technology and innovation. This includes significant advancements in fields such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and defense technologies.

Technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), autonomous systems and quantum technologies are changing the world, and the way it operates. These and other EDTs present both risks and opportunities for countries.

The Swiss Techology Observatory mission,  is oriented according to the Security-relevant Technology and Industry Base (STIB) of the Federal Office for Defence Procurement armasuisse. It aims to contribute to reducing Switzerland’s dependencies on foreign countries.

Militaries and governments have long used encryption technologies to facilitate secret communication. However, today, encryption technologies are equally crucial in protecting our economy and civil society. Moreover, encryption technologies are critical enablers of the ongoing transformation in the digital economy and online society. For example, encryption technologies are widely used to secure financial transactions over blockchains, authenticate users, or secure cloud and personal computing environments.

A major obstacle to ensuring security and user safety in cyberspace is the speed at which the offensive and defensive tools evolve. A new technology getting integrated into cyber-physical systems can create a novel attack surface that can and will be rapidly exploited. A new technology unexpectedly exploited by an attacker can give them a crucial advantage, leading to a series of compromises. Large Language Models (LLMs) are just such a technology.