Defense One · 22 Sep, 15:47 · Technology briefing

NATO’s thumbs-up for AWS shows Europe still needs America

NATO has officially endorsed Amazon Web Services for its cloud infrastructure, signalling a continued reliance on US technology within the Alliance.

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The briefing

The story
in brief.

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NATO has officially endorsed Amazon Web Services for its cloud infrastructure, signalling a continued reliance on US technology within the Alliance. This strategic decision underscores the persistent need for American digital solutions in European defence operations. The move highlights the deepening integration of commercial cloud providers into military frameworks, raising discussions about data sovereignty and transatlantic technological dependencies. Professionals should note this as a significant shift in defence procurement, reflecting broader trends in the adoption of enterprise-grade cloud services for sensitive government and military applications across the continent.

Employer demand for Cloud Computing skills — indexed growth since 2019
Indicative index of skill mentions in professional job postings for the field this story moves (2019 = 1)

Your move

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This development signals a growing demand for expertise in cloud architecture within defence and public sectors. You should focus on mastering cloud security protocols and compliance frameworks, as these skills are now critical for roles involving government contracts. Professionals in IT and project management must understand the nuances of hybrid cloud environments and international data regulations. Upskilling in AWS-specific certifications and cloud governance will make you highly attractive to defence contractors and consultancies. Monitor emerging trends in sovereign cloud solutions and prepare to advise organisations on navigating complex geopolitical tech dependencies. Prioritise certifications that validate your ability to secure sensitive data in multi-cloud environments.

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