Critical National Infrastructure (CNI)
How APC Technology Group Strengthens the UK’s Critical National Infrastructure (CNI)
The UK’s critical national infrastructure (CNI) consists of the most important systems in the country responsible for keeping the economy functioning and supplying services and assets that are vital to the country’s security, economy and public safety. These include sectors such as energy, transport, communications, water, health, defence and government.
Through governing bodies such as the National Protective Security Authority (NPSA) and the National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), the UK Government protects CNI to ensure national resilience. These organisations set national standards and guidance for critical infrastructure protection, protecting essential networks against threats such as cyberattacks, terrorism and supply chain disruption.
If a critical system fails or is compromised, the effects can be wide-reaching, such as disrupting essential public services and weakening national stability. That’s why the protection of CNI systems is a top priority for both government and industry. By building a strong, secure and reliable infrastructure, the UK can reduce risks, recover quickly from incidents and maintain public confidence in its essential services.
What sectors are in CNI?
Whilst definitions and scopes do differ, the UK Government has identified thirteen national infrastructure sectors which it believes are essential for protection in the national interest:
- Chemicals
- Civil Nuclear
- Communications
- Defence
- Emergency Services
- Energy
- Finance
- Food
- Government
- Health
- Space
- Transport
- Water
APC Technology Group is a trusted partner for OEMs operating across the UK’s Critical National Infrastructure. With over 40 years of experience supporting defence, aerospace and industrial infrastructure projects, we understand the standards set by the NPSA, NCSC and key UK regulators such as Ofgem, Ofcom and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA).
How APC Supports Each CNI Sector
At APC, we offer high-reliability electronic components, rugged computing systems and secure communication technologies engineered for CNI applications and critical infrastructure systems. Each solution meets the highest safety and compliance standards, sourced through trusted suppliers with full supply-chain visibility, ensuring consistent performance, reliability and regulatory assurance.
CNI Sector |
APC's Key Technologies and Solutions |
Defence and Security |
Military-grade electronic components, secure communications and rugged systems built to MIL-STD standards for mission-critical applications |
Communications |
RF and microwave modules, connectors and network synchronisation products that ensure resilient data, signal transmission and mitigate risks from cyber threats |
Energy |
Power management and systems, embedded computing to maintain stable energy production and distribution |
Transport |
Rugged computing systems, control modules, embedded displays and intelligent transport electronics for reliable rail, road and intelligent transport systems |
Water and Environmental Systems |
Industrial sensors, IP67, IP68 & IP69K rated sealed connectors and ruggedised electronics that support water treatment, environmental monitoring and regulatory compliance |
Government and Emergency Services |
Secure hardware, embedded systems and Sensitive Compartmented Information Facilities (SCIF) for data security and operational continuity |
Space, Nuclear and Industrial Automation |
Radiation-tolerant semiconductors, optoelectronics, automation and control components and ATEX-rated rugged computing systems for high-risk, high-reliability environments |
Connecting All Sectors Into One Resilient Infrastructure
CNI sectors are all interconnected. Energy systems depend on communication networks, transport relies on digital control and emergency services depend on both. APC’s cross-sector expertise helps create a unified, interoperable system, reducing risks and increasing national resilience.
Meeting the Future Challenges of UK CNI
The CNI landscape is constantly evolving. Cyber threats, AI vulnerabilities, and environmental risks demand forward-thinking solutions. APC helps organisations stay ahead through trusted components, expert technical guidance and long-term support, ensuring that the systems powering the UK remain reliable and secure.
APC's Commitment to Quality, Compliance and Accreditation
With over 40 years of experience, APC Technology Group delivers genuine, traceable MIL-STD components and specialist technology for naval, land and avionic applications. Accredited to BS EN 9120:2018 (AS9120B), ISO 9001:2015, Cyber Essentials Plus and the ADS Group, APC upholds strict quality standards and trusted sourcing across every project.
These credentials support key UK sectors, including defence, energy, communications and transport, which are at the heart of the nation’s Critical National Infrastructure (CNI).
Get expert advice
Through audited processes and verified partnerships, APC gives OEMs and integrators complete assurance in product integrity and long-term reliability.
Contact a member of our team to get dedicated one-to-one consultancy with your latest projects and applications.