THE DAILY PRAETORIAN: Cybersecurity Trends – 7/18/25

Securing Tomorrow: Your Daily Dose of Cyber Safety, Tech Trends, National Defense News, and Inspiration.

“The strength of NATO lies not only in its military might, but in the unity of purpose among its members.”

— Jens Stoltenberg

XQ-58 Valkyrie Heading To European Market With Kratos-Airbus Team-Up
Airbus and Kratos Defense have partnered to offer the stealthy XQ-58A Valkyrie drone, optimized for European defense needs, with Germany’s Luftwaffe as a likely launch customer by 2029. This Europeanized version will feature a new, platform-agnostic mission system and could serve as an interim loyal wingman platform ahead of the Future Combat Air System (FCAS) program slated for the 2040s. Although Germany hasn’t confirmed plans to procure the Valkyrie, the partnership aims to meet urgent NATO demand for affordable, collaborative combat aircraft. While the XQ-58A isn’t currently pitched for Germany’s Electronic Combat Wingman program, it offers versatile deployment options such as rail or container launches, and may include built-in landing gear. The move comes as European nations seek to expand airpower capabilities amid growing tensions with Russia. Click here to read more.

No ticket, no tune – the tech race to keep concerts behind paywalls
As the Oasis comeback tour and similar mega-gigs from artists like Taylor Swift and Beyoncé draw massive crowds, venues are stepping up their defenses to keep concerts behind both physical and digital paywalls. With fans gathering outside venues or using drones and live streams to catch free glimpses, organizers are deploying fences, drone jammers, sound-blocking tech like LRADs, and AI copyright enforcement tools to block unauthorized access. Tools like YouTube’s Content ID and Meta’s Rights Manager are shutting down livestreams, while police are confiscating drones and using radar systems to deter aerial freeloaders. Though critics call it overkill, venues are doubling down on keeping experiences exclusive to wristband holders. Click here to read more.

Brad Arnold Gives Hopeful Cancer Update Rooted in Faith
Brad Arnold, lead singer of 3 Doors Down, has shared an uplifting update on his battle with stage 4 cancer, crediting his improving health to both divine strength and the power of prayer. Diagnosed in May with clear cell renal carcinoma that spread to his lungs, Arnold took to Instagram with words of encouragement rooted in faith, reminding followers of their divine purpose and the boundless love of God. Expressing gratitude for the prayers and support he’s received, Arnold noted he’s feeling better each day and remains confident in God’s healing power. Known for boldly sharing his Christian faith during concerts, Arnold reflected on spreading the message of Jesus to over 680,000 people last summer, calling it the highlight of his career. With hope and humility, he declared, “God doesn’t fail.” Click here to read more.

China’s Salt Typhoon Hacked US National Guard
A Department of Defense report reveals that Chinese state-sponsored hacking group Salt Typhoon breached the network of a U.S. state’s Army National Guard unit, stealing sensitive data and communications that could jeopardize national cybersecurity. The hackers accessed the network from March to December 2024, collecting configuration files, administrator credentials, and network diagrams, potentially enabling further intrusions into units across all U.S. states and several territories. The breach poses a serious threat to critical infrastructure defense, especially in states where National Guard units are integrated with cybersecurity centers. The attackers exploited known vulnerabilities in Cisco and Palo Alto Networks devices to gain entry. Salt Typhoon has previously targeted major U.S. telecom providers and Canadian networks. The National Guard Bureau confirmed the intrusion but emphasized that the attack has not hindered its operational capabilities and that a thorough investigation is ongoing in coordination with federal agencies. Click here to read more.

Israel’s eyes and ears: The IDF squadron that the entire Middle East fears
Israel’s Nachshon 122 Squadron, based at Nevatim Air Force Base, plays a critical role in the IDF’s intelligence and reconnaissance capabilities across the Middle East, earning it a reputation as the “eyes and ears” of the Israeli Air Force. With three unique aircraft platforms—Itam, Shavit, and a newly operational advanced intelligence aircraft—the squadron supports operations ranging from air superiority missions to deep strikes in Gaza, Lebanon, and Iran. During Operation Rising Lion, the squadron led air operations over Iran, provided real-time tactical intelligence, and opened aerial corridors for Israeli jets. Its elite personnel, including newly introduced air reconnaissance officers, have been instrumental in collecting targets, managing air traffic, and securing Israeli skies. The unit’s performance, especially in response to the multi-front war following the October 7 attacks, reflects its evolving importance amid rapidly advancing defense technologies like observation satellites. As commanders transition and missions intensify, Nachshon remains unmatched in its capabilities and operational impact across the region. Click here to read more.