Infrastructure, AI, Cyber: The New Energy and Water Threats

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The Association of Defense Communities (ADC) recently held its Installation Energy & Water Forum, where speakers discussed how emerging technologies like AI, autonomy, and digital systems are reshaping defense operations and creating new demands for reliable electricity, water supply, and secure infrastructure. At the same time, aging systems, rising costs, and cyber threats are increasing risk for military installations and surrounding communities.

Why it matters

As the U.S. military continues to modernize and adopt new technologies, the need for resilient and adaptable energy and water infrastructure has become critical. This forum highlighted the evolving challenges facing defense communities in managing these essential resources, which have significant implications for national security, local economies, and quality of life.

The details

The daylong forum, held in Arlington, Virginia, was attended by nearly 300 participants and featured sessions covering a range of topics related to energy and water management on and around military installations. Key themes included the impact of AI, autonomy, and advanced manufacturing on infrastructure demands, as well as the growing threat of cyber attacks on these critical systems.

• The ADC Installation Energy & Water Forum took place in January 2026.
• The conversation on these topics will continue at ADC50 and beyond.