18: Spectrum Dominance: Why Modern Wars Stall Without Electronic Warfare Superiority

This conversation explores why modern warfare doesn't start with a trigger pull but with sensing, jamming and deceiving across invisible frequencies.From a dramatic moment when Mike's jamming system neutralized an enemy radar in under a second, to the strategic paralysis unfolding in Ukraine, this episode unpacks why whoever owns the spectrum owns the fight.In this episode of Allies in Innovation, host Mikkel Svold speaks with Mike Cocke, Senior Director of Business Development for Self-Protection Systems at Terma and former commander of the US Air Force's 350th Spectrum Warfare Group. With nearly 24 years flying B-52 bombers and leading electronic warfare operations, Mike brings firsthand experience from the sharp edge of a battlefield most people never see: the electromagnetic spectrum.In the episode, you'll learn about:Why spectrum dominance is the foundation for air superiority and ground operationsHow electronic warfare evolved from World War II radar countermeasures to software-defined systemsWhat the Ukraine conflict reveals about modern electromagnetic stalemateWhy the shift from kill chains to kill webs changes everything about aircraft survivabilityHow AI will likely replace human electronic warfare officers in future combatWhy defense acquisition processes must accept new risks to keep pace with rapidly evolving threatsEpisode Content:00:00 Opening: A real encounter with an enemy radar and instant countermeasures03:07 What electronic warfare actually is and why most people have never heard of it05:04 Self-protection systems on the B-52: Mike's role keeping the aircraft alive08:28 What happens when your jamming systems fail12:21 Spectrum dominance explained through the lens of World War I parallels15:27 The reality on the ground in Ukraine: no GPS, no communications, isolated command18:06 The birth of electronic warfare and the October 1959 turning point22:28 Software-defined radios and why the threat landscape changes overnight 26:47 Why proven technology and slow acquisition create new risks 29:51 Kill chains versus kill webs: the networking of sixth-generation aircraft 34:05 Why AI will become the future electronic warfare officer 37:15 Final thoughts: learning from history and making decisions with incomplete information ProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

Europe has set itself a clear goal: be militarily ready by 2030. But with drone incursions, airspace violations and a rapidly shifting geopolitical landscape, is that timeline still realistic? And what does "ready" actually mean in practice?In this episode of Allies in Innovation, host Mikkel Svold revisits the EU security and defense agenda with Séverin Schnepp, Associate Director of European Affairs at Terma, and Christine Nissen, Chief Analyst at Think Tank Europa. Together, they unpack the EU Defense Readiness Roadmap 2030, the Danish EU presidency, and what has really changed in the past four months on defense and security.ªThey discuss new EU instruments like EDIP and the SAFE loan, the idea of European preference in defense procurement, and the evolving relationship between states and industry. At the same time, they explore the political realities, national interests and time pressure that could either drive Europe toward real readiness or keep it stuck in talks and strategies.If you want to understand how Europe is trying to move from vision to capability, this episode gives you a clear and grounded overview.In this episode, you will learn about:1. What the EU Defense Readiness Roadmap 2030 actually aims to achieve.2. How the Danish EU presidency has pushed key defense initiatives forward.3. The role of EDIP and the SAFE loan in strengthening Europe’s defense industry.4. What European preference means for defense procurement and industry.5. Why drones and hybrid threats are changing the sense of urgency.6. How national interests and geography shape countries’ threat perceptions.7. Why the relationship between states and defense industry needs a reset.8. The main roadblocks to coordination, speed and common capability projects.Episode Content 00:00 Can Europe be ready for war by 2030 and what does readiness mean 01:03 New security reality with airspace violations and drone incursions 03:44 What the Danish EU presidency has actually delivered on defense 04:26 EDIP, the Defense Roadmap and cutting red tape for industry05:40 How the broader geopolitical context has raised the stakes08:27 The SAFE loan and how 19 member states have signed up09:25 Turning EU money and loans into real capabilities and production10:58 What the EU can do to better push the agenda into industry13:14 European preference and why EU funds are tied to EU-made systems16:19 Fragmentation, national interests and incentives to cooperate18:23 Main roadblocks: coordination, speed and defining “smart choices” 23:19 Is the 2030 readiness goal realistic and how deadlines change behavior27:45 Are we moving toward a real “one European team” mindset33:25 What defense spending looks like per EU citizen35:18 The final stretch of the Danish presidency and what comes next37:22 Flagship capability projects and priorities for 2026 and beyond ProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

IntroductionA single malware attack once took down more than 6,000 wind turbines in Germany and disrupted satellite networks across Europe. What began as a cyber strike on Ukraine exposed something far bigger: how vulnerable our space infrastructure really is.In this episode of Allies in Innovation, host Mikkel Svold talks with Olga Nasibullina, co-founder of A42 and TheSign.Media, and Augusto Mattos Schaedle, Senior Director and Head of Space R&D at Terma Group. Together, they explore how cyberattacks can reach satellites, ground stations, and communication networks, and why space has become the new digital frontline. They also discuss lessons from the VSAT incident, the challenge of securing legacy systems, and the urgent need to train a new generation of specialists in space cybersecurity. Because protecting space is no longer just about rockets and satellites, but about safeguarding the systems that connect life on Earth.In this episode, you'll learn about:Why space technology is essential to modern life.How the VSAT cyberattack reshaped global thinking on satellite security.Key vulnerabilities across the satellite lifecycle.How Terma integrates cybersecurity by design into space missions.Why legacy satellites are difficult to secure.The growing need for education and training in space cybersecurity.The double-edged role of AI in developing secure space systems.Episode Content 00:00 Why space technology matters and how dependent we are on it00:56 The VSAT cyberattack that exposed space vulnerabilities02:13 Introducing guests Olga Nasibullina and Augusto Mattos Schaedle03:25 How satellite technology affects communication, navigation, and agriculture04:31 Why space security concerns everyday life, not just defense05:31 Lessons learned from the VSAT incident08:07 The full lifecycle of vulnerabilities in satellite systems09:47 How Terma builds cybersecurity into missions from the start13:29 Protecting legacy satellites through secure ground systems14:54 Why governments need more training in space cybersecurity16:51 The shortage of specialists and the need for new education programs19:07 The ethical use of AI in space security and software development ProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

A drone buzzes low over a restricted zone. It’s too small to spot on radar, too fast to intercept in time. It’s not science fiction. It’s happening right now, at nuclear plants, power grids and government offices.In this episode, host Mikkel Svold talks with Karsten Marrup from the Royal Danish Defense College and Lasse Due Jørgensen from Terma, a global leader in drone defense tech. They break down how drones are pushing past old security systems and what’s actually working to stop them.We get into real-world tactics, the limits of current tech and how AI fits into the picture. The future has arrived faster than expected, and it’s up to us to meet it head-on.In this episode, you'll learn about:1. Types of drones national security must counter.2. Why different drones need different countermeasures.3. How critical infrastructure protects against drone threats.4. Impact of hybrid warfare on critical infrastructure.5. Challenges of leveling the field with scalable counter systems.6. Role of AI in evolving drone threats.Episode Content 01:55 Different types of drones and their purposes06:18 Drones for critical infrastructure protection08:00 Understanding motives behind drone activities09:24 Challenges in detecting and countering drones11:00 Radar limitations for small drones explained13:53 Building a layered defense approach17:27 Prioritizing critical infrastructure protection strategies19:48 Mitigating threats from cheap drones22:45 Importance of passive air defense measures26:16 Exploring hybrid warfare and its implications29:47 Cybersecurity and space operations questions to consider34:15 Future of drone technology and defense strategieProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

Cyber security is no longer an afterthought. Cyber threads are now shaping the foundation of defense and critical infrastructure systems. At the same time, emerging technologies like quantum computing and AI are accelerating faster than expected, bringing both opportunities and risks.In this episode of Allies in Innovation, host Mikkel Svold sits down once again with Samant Khajuria, Vice President of Quantum and Cyber at Terma. They revisit the evolving cyber landscape, explore how defense organizations are preparing for “Q-Day” (when quantum computers can break today’s encryption), and discuss the crucial role of collaboration in staying ahead. They also cover practical challenges, from legacy systems to shifting standards, and explain why cyber needs to be integrated from the very first design stage and not added later.If you want to understand how the defense industry is gearing up for disruptive technologies, this episode will give you a front-row seat.In this episode, you'll learn about:Why cyber is moving from “add-on” to a core design requirement.How NATO standards are shaping interoperability across defense systems.The convergence of cyber, AI, and quantum - and the risks of misuse.The looming quantum threat: “harvest now, decrypt later.”How post-quantum cryptography and quantum key distribution could secure the future.Real-world challenges in transitioning legacy systems.The importance of partnerships and joint strategies in Europe and beyond.Why quantum sensing might become a game-changer in the next five years.Episode Content00:00 Introduction to Cyber and Quantum with Samant Khajuria01:54 Cybersecurity as a fundamental requirement in defense and infrastructure03:29 The shift from “add-on” security to built-in resilience05:41 Disruptive technologies: cyber, AI, quantum, and their dual-use risks08:58 Collaboration and partnerships to keep pace with rapid innovation09:38 Preparing for Q-Day: harvest now, decrypt later10:52 Post-quantum cryptography and quantum key distribution in practice12:47 Challenges of legacy systems and new cyber standards15:09 Roadmap: proof-of-concepts and quantum key exchange projects16:42 How smaller organizations can prepare for cyber and quantum threats18:06 Quantum sensing and other non-cyber applications of quantum tech19:40 Looking ahead: strategy, digitization, and reducing red tapeProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

How do you keep communication systems in space agile, secure, and mission-ready? Software-defined radio (SDR) might be your best answer.In this episode of Allies in Innovation, host Mikkel Svold talks with Andreas Stren, lecturer at the University of Applied Sciences Wiener Neustadt, and Alexander Spaniol, RF engineer at Terma. They break down how SDR shifts control from hardware to software, enables remote updates, faster adjustments to mission demands, and better risk management.They also get into real-world SDR use cases, cybersecurity challenges, and why the tech could be a game-changer for ground stations and smaller space operators.If you’re into the current or future space communication systems, this one’s worth a listen.In this episode, you'll learn about:Key benefits of software-defined radio in space missions.How SDR enhances flexibility and re-configurability for satellites.Overcoming SDR challenges: radiation effects and cybersecurity.The role of virtualization in satellite communication solutions.Future prospects: cost-effective and accessible ground stationsEpisode Content00:00 Introduction to Software-Defined Radio and Guests  00:47 What is Software-Defined Radio (SDR)?  01:43 Transition from Hardware to Software-Defined Systems  03:15 Advantages of Reduced Hardware in Space Missions  05:39 Flexibility and Reconfigurability in SDR Applications  08:12 Risks and Challenges of Using SDRs in Space  12:33 Cybersecurity Concerns in Software-Defined Systems  14:07 Connection Between SDR and Virtualization  16:22 Cost-Effectiveness of Virtualized Ground Stations  17:22 Educational Impact of SDR in Aerospace Training  28:42 Future Trends in SDR for Communication ServicesProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma.This podcast is produced by Montanus.ProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

Is Europe ready for the next wave of security threats?With Denmark stepping into the EU presidency and war still raging in Ukraine, defense strategy across the continent is under pressure to adapt. In this episode, host Mikkel Svold speaks with Christine Nissen, Chief Analyst at Think Tank Europa, and Séverin Schnepp, Associate Director at Terma, to uncover Denmark’s growing role, the EU’s shifting posture, and defense industry readiness.Can Europe act together?Are current capabilities enough?And what should the defense sector expect?**In this episode, you'll learn about:**Denmark's EU presidency and its impact on European security.How EU defense policies are shaped during presidencies.Denmark's shifting stance on EU defense cooperation.Balancing conventional and unconventional security threats in Europe.Industry and government roles in defense capability development.Importance of collaboration in European defense strategies.## Episode Content01:17 Overview of EU Presidency and its significance03:04 Influence of Denmark on the EU agenda05:12 Historical skepticism of Denmark towards EU defense09:30 Industry perspective on changing defense dynamics13:05 Public sentiment regarding EU defense cooperation15:39 Upcoming agendas for Denmark's EU Presidency18:43 Budgeting goals and legislative conclusions for defense21:51 Ready for conflict by 2030: key concerns25:17 Addressing conventional and unconventional threats31:38 Future of European defense collaboration strategies34:47 Top priorities for Denmark during the presidency## ProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma.This podcast is produced by Montanus.ProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

Europe’s defense priorities are shifting fast – but are governments moving quickly enough?Join us at the Paris Air Show where we talk with Georgia Pickering from CMS Strategic and Steen Lynenskjold of Terma about how the UK and Denmark are responding to rising tensions, urgent rearming pressures, and what NATO and the EU are getting right – and wrong.In this episode You’ll learn about the funding gaps, where skills and tech still fall short, and how politics, industry, and the military are actually working together to meet Europe’s 2030 defense goals.Short, sharp, and brutally honest.In this episode, you'll learn about:The impact of defense budget increases in Europe and NATO.The UK's current stance and future on defense spending.How the Danish defense industry is responding to new demands.The role of SMEs in strengthening the defense sector.Innovations and challenges in European defense investments.How non-traditional companies are changing the defense landscape.Episode Content01:41 Discussion on Europe's rearming urgency06:00 Addressing capability and skills gaps in defense07:32 Perception shifts due to support for Ukraine09:54 The importance of industry certainty and investment10:55 Accelerating defense capabilities within the industry15:52 The blurring lines between civil and defense industries19:26 Non-traditional companies entering the defense sector22:52 Launch of new technology during the air show30:00 Closing remarks and listener engagement invitationProduction This podcast is brought to you by Terma.This podcast is produced by Montanus and LoudColors.Special thanks to Paris Air Show and CMS Strategic for joining the conversation.ProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

How do nations protect their most critical systems in an increasingly digital world? In this episode of Allies in Innovation, host Mikkel Svold talks with Samant Khajuria, VP of Cyber and Quantum at Terma, and Jeffrey Saunders, CTO and Strategic Advisor at Denmark's National Defense Technology Center.They break down how governments, researchers, and the private sector work together to tackle cybersecurity challenges. From securing supply chains to tackling real-world defense threats, the conversation gets straight to what works—and what doesn't—when safeguarding national networks.Listen in to learn how collaboration, trust, and constant vigilance are shaping the future of cyber defense.In this episode, you'll learn about:1. How collaboration strengthens cyber defense across industries.2. The critical role of supply chain security.3. Key certifications for robust cyber defense.4. The intersection of IT and OT in cybersecurity.5. How trust and verification impact national defense.6. Insights into future collaboration for cybersecurity innovation.Episode Contents00:11 Introduction to Cybersecurity in Defense with Samant Khajuria and Jeffrey Saunders 03:24 Building Trust Within Your Supply Chain  08:18 Ensuring Compliance Across Vendor Supply Chains  10:21 Integrating IT and OT for Enhanced Security  15:42 Collaboration Among Governments, Research, and Private Sector  17:36 Education and Knowledge Sharing in Cybersecurity  29:25 Future Collaborations and Building Trust Across Borders  32:59 Final Thoughts on Trust and Verification in CybersecurityProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma.This podcast is produced by Montanus.ProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma. This podcast is produced by Montanus.

Space hardware is getting a software upgrade — and it’s changing the rules.In this episode, Mikkel Svold speaks with aerospace lecturer Andreas Stren and RF engineer Alexander Spaniol from Terma about how configurable tech like FPGAs is giving satellites a second life. Smarter systems mean in-mission updates, greater resilience, and real-time adaptability in unpredictable environments.For those tracking the edge of space infrastructure — from mission ops to defense contractors — this conversation cuts to the core of what's next in agile satellite design.This is about what’s working, what’s coming, and why it matters.In this episode, you'll learn about:Discover how software redefines space tech design and functionality.Understand FPGA's role in software-driven space applications.Learn the shift from hardware to software-defined architectures.Explore mission agility with software reconfigurability onboard.Uncover how AI enhances satellite autonomous decision-making.Future vision: virtualization and onboard data processing evolution.Episode Contents00:11 Introduction to software's evolution in space technology  01:06 Historical shifts: From analog systems to software-driven solutions  03:29 Role of software-defined architectures in space systems  04:53 Hardware requirements in harsh space environments  07:24 Enhancements in mission planning and satellite lifespan  10:52 Implications of increased processing power for satellites  13:28 Benefits of software-defined systems for mission adaptability  17:56 Automation and AI in satellite decision-making processes  22:13 Influence of new space actors on software advancements  25:21 Future developments: Virtualization and onboard data processing  28:50 Practical applications: Wildfire detection and autonomous landingsProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma.This podcast is produced by Montanus.ProductionThis podcast is brought to you by Terma. This podcast is produced by Montanus.