U.S. Space Force Major Jason Lowery advocates for the strategic role of Bitcoin in enhancing U.S. cybersecurity and economic dominance.
In a recent development, U.S. Space Force Major Jason Lowery emphasized the critical importance of Bitcoin and similar proof-of-work (PoW) systems for America’s national defense strategy. Lowery, in his communication with the U.S. Defense Innovation Board, highlighted the necessity for the U.S. military to explore these technologies, particularly in the context of cybersecurity and national security.
Strategic Value of Bitcoin in Cybersecurity
Contrary to the common perception of Bitcoin as merely a monetary tool, Lowery argues that its capabilities extend far beyond securing financial transactions. According to him, Bitcoin can effectively secure various forms of data, including messages and command signals. This broader perspective of Bitcoin’s potential is crucial, as it underscores its significance in cybersecurity and, consequently, national defense.
Lowery urges the Defense Innovation Board to recommend that the Secretary of Defense delve into the strategic importance of PoW systems like Bitcoin. He believes that these systems, by virtue of their resource-intensive nature, can act as a deterrent to cyber adversaries, much like physical military assets deter conventional military threats.
The concept of using Bitcoin in this capacity aligns with existing physical security strategies across land, sea, air, and space. However, it shifts the focus to the digital realm, offering a new dimension of security.
Bitcoin’s Role in Cybersecurity
Lowery envisions Bitcoin’s role in cybersecurity as monumental, potentially leading the United States in maintaining its global superpower status, especially in an increasingly digital world fraught with security challenges. He posits that embracing Bitcoin for cybersecurity could be the start of a revolution, transforming the global electric power grid into a vast, cost-intensive computer that physically constrains malicious online activities.
The concept involves leveraging the extensive reach of the power grid to protect a wide array of internet-transmitted data and messages. In this view, Bitcoin’s application in cybersecurity is not just a tactical tool but a strategic asset that aligns with the United States’ broader defense strategies.
Perspectives on Bitcoin’s National Impact
Beyond Lowery’s proposition, Coinbase CEO Brian Armstrong has also weighed in on the discussion, focusing on the role of Bitcoin and cryptocurrencies in preserving U.S. interests, particularly concerning the U.S. dollar. Armstrong suggests that Bitcoin could be instrumental in extending Western civilization’s influence, serving as a complement to the U.S. dollar rather than a replacement.
He highlights the potential of cryptocurrencies as a buffer against inflation and a viable alternative in scenarios where the U.S. dollar’s dominance might wane. Armstrong notes that in such circumstances, shifting from dollars to cryptocurrencies could be more beneficial than adopting another country’s fiat currency. He also points out the significant role that U.S. dollar-backed stablecoins and emerging flat coins could play in bridging the gap between traditional and digital currencies.