# The Cipher Brief Previews Threat Conference in Georgia

The Cipher Brief's Chief Operating Officer Brad Christian previewed the 10th annual Threat Conference held in Sea Island, Georgia, focusing on critical topics such as the expanding role of artificial intelligence in warfare, the innovation gap between public and private sectors, and emerging "gray warfare" tactics affecting U.S. homeland security. Attorney Elisabeth Baker-Pham highlighted evolving security clearance risks tied to foreign influence concerns amid ongoing global conflicts, which may affect clearance holders with previously vetted foreign contacts.

- Procurement professionals should note the increasing emphasis on AI capabilities and cybersecurity measures in defense and homeland security acquisitions.
- The discussion on security clearance risks signals potential changes in clearance vetting processes, impacting contractor eligibility and compliance requirements.
- Agencies and contractors involved in homeland defense may find opportunities to address emerging threats through innovative technologies and services.
- Understanding the innovation gap underscores the need for procurement strategies that foster collaboration between government and private sector technology providers.

**Jurisdictions:** federal
**Industries:** Defense & Military, Public Safety
**Topics:** Artificial Intelligence, Cybersecurity
**Published:** September 18, 2026

### Sources
- [
        The Cipher Brief’s Brad Christian Previews the Threat Conference’s 10th Year | Federal News Network](https://federalnewsnetwork.com/podcast/security-clearance-insecurity/the-cipher-briefs-brad-christian-previews-the-threat-conferences-10th-year) - federalnewsnetwork.com