In today’s hyper-connected world, aerospace manufacturers are more vulnerable than ever to cyber threats, and their supply chains are often the weakest link. At CyberStreams, we specialize in protecting aerospace operations from these ever-evolving risks. One alarming trend: supply chain attacks in manufacturing surged by 51% in 2024, with aerospace firms among the most heavily impacted (IBM X-Force, 2025).

These attacks don’t typically come through the front door. Instead, they exploit back-end vulnerabilities, such as unsecured vendor portals, outdated systems, or undertrained staff. The result? Millions lost in production downtime, stolen IP, or even broken contracts.

Real-World Risk: A Wake-Up Call

Consider the case of a small Seattle-based aerospace firm that reached out to us during a ransomware crisis. Hackers had breached their systems through an unsecured web portal, halting operations for days and putting a critical contract at risk. Our team at CyberStreams responded rapidly, isolating the threat, restoring systems, and deploying NIST 800-171-compliant controls to lock down their supply chain.

This isn’t a one-off scenario. It’s a preview of what’s to come if aerospace manufacturers don’t act now.

Why You Can’t Afford to Wait

Cybercriminals don’t discriminate based on company size. Whether you’re a Tier 1 supplier or a niche component maker, you’re part of a larger digital ecosystem, and a target.

Here are three steps every aerospace manufacturer should prioritize immediately:

Three Critical Takeaways

1. Map and Audit Your Supply Chain

You can’t secure what you can’t see. Use NIST’s Cyber Supply Chain Risk Management tools to identify potential vulnerabilities across all vendors and partners. CyberStreams can conduct a full audit to help you understand where the risks are, and how to fix them.

2. Deploy Endpoint Protection

Modern endpoint security can stop 95% of ransomware attacks before they spread. This is your first line of defense. Our solutions are designed specifically for the complex needs of aerospace manufacturers, ensuring every device is protected without disrupting operations.

3. Train Your Team Regularly

Your employees are both your biggest asset, and potential liability. A single phishing email can compromise your entire network. Our 2-minute micro-trainings and phishing simulations cut employee click-rates by up to 80%, keeping your team sharp and your systems safe.

Conclusion: Time to Act Is Now

Aerospace manufacturers operate in one of the most sensitive and high-stakes industries in the world. A single supply chain breach can cost more than just money, it can jeopardize national security, regulatory compliance, and long-standing customer relationships.

Cyber threats aren't slowing down, and neither can you. By auditing your supply chain, deploying advanced endpoint protection, and empowering your team with security training, you can safeguard your company’s future in a digital-first world.

At CyberStreams, we’re ready to help you take the first step, because in aerospace, resilience is mission-critical.