Cybersecurity of unmanned surface vessels : imeca based assessment and protection against ai powered attacks

The study is devoted to the analysis of cyber security and its impact on the efficiency and safety of the applying single Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) and USV swarms (USVS). Based on a review of modern USV systems, a generalized architecture and model are proposed, and the impact of the cyber and physical environment is analyzed. The types of cyberattacks on USVs are systematized taking into account the use of artificial intelligence (AI). The set of scenarios identified as “AI powered attacks against AI powered protection” is clarified considering features of USV/USVS application. Assessment of cyber security of USV/USVSs is carried out using the IMECA (Intrusion Modes and Effects Criticality Analysis) technique and Security Informed Safety (SIS) approach. Illustrative examples of IMEСA based analysis of USV cyber assets/digital systems are provided taking into account specific threats, vulnerabilities, attacks and their effects for systems security and safety.