Navy

Zero Trust at Sea: Security Gains and the Risk of Operational Disruption without Fallback Mechanisms

Abstract:

Zero-Trust Architecture (ZTA) has emerged as a foundational cybersecurity paradigm with wide adoption. However, assumptions made in shore-based enterprise networks pose challenges when applying zero-trust principles in maritime environments. In maritime systems, operations depend on intermittent, low-bandwidth, and often contested communications. Thus, strict zero trust enforcement can unintentionally disrupt mission-critical functions. This paper examines the benefits and limitations of applying ZTA in maritime contexts, with particular attention to safety-critical operations and military. This work outlines a maritime-adapted zero trust framework that integrates degraded-mode operation and fallback mechanisms to preserve operational continuity while maintaining security objectives and safe mission completion.

Published In

Volume 25, Issue 3

Journal of Information Warfare

The definitive publication for the best and latest research and analysis on information warfare, information operations, and cyber crime. Available in traditional hard copy or online.

Keywords

(

2

3

4

8

9

A
AI
APT

a

B

C
C2
C2S
CDX
CIA
CIP
CPS

D
DNS
DoD
DoS

E

e

F

G

H

I
IA
ICS
ICT

i

J

K

L

M

N
NEC
NSA
NSS

O

P
PDA

Q

R

S
SOA

T

t

U

V

W

X
XRY

Y

Z

Quill Logo

The definitive publication for the best and latest research and analysis on information warfare, information operations, and cyber crime. Available in traditional hard copy or online.

SUBSCRIBE NOW

Get in touch

Registered Agent and Mailing Address

  • Journal of Information Warfare
  •  ArmisteadTEC
  • Dr Leigh Armistead, President
  • 1624 Wakefield Drive
  • Virginia Beach, VA 23455

 757.510.4574

 JIW@ArmisteadTec.com