Gravity Team at Black Hat USA 2026: Exploring the Future of Autonomous Cyber Defense

Artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping cybersecurity, not only by strengthening defense, but by changing how cyber threats emerge, evolve and operate.

At Black Hat USA 2026, Gravity Team's CISO/CIO, Michael Thiessmeier, will take the stage in the AI Zone to deliver a keynote exploring what comes next.

The Age of Autonomous Cyber Conflict

On Wednesday, 5 August, Michael will present "The Age of Autonomous Cyber Conflict: How Agentic AI Will Transform Cybersecurity Over the Next Five Years."

The session will examine how autonomous AI agents are beginning to transform both offensive and defensive cyber operations, and why organisations must prepare for an increasingly adaptive threat landscape.

Hosted on the AI Zone Stage at Mandalay Bay, the keynote forms part of Black Hat USA's programme exploring the practical applications of AI across modern cybersecurity.

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Continuing the Conversation at US CyberCon

Following Black Hat, Michael will also participate in a fireside chat at US CyberCon, hosted by the U.S. Cyber Games.

The discussion will focus on how international collaboration, cyber diplomacy and public-private partnerships can strengthen collective cyber resilience. Drawing on his work with the U.S. National AI and Cybersecurity ISAO and Cyber Eagle, Michael will also discuss initiatives supporting cybersecurity education and knowledge transfer across Europe, including a partnership with SET University in Ukraine.

The conversation will also explore the future of autonomous cyber defence, including Michael's Polymorphic Agentic Cyber Defense (PACD) framework—a model for adaptive, mission-aligned and securely governed AI agents in cyber operations.

Looking Ahead

As AI becomes increasingly embedded in both cyber attacks and cyber defence, collaboration between governments, industry and academia will play a critical role in building resilient digital infrastructure.

We're proud to contribute to these conversations at Black Hat USA and US CyberCon, and look forward to engaging with cybersecurity leaders, researchers and practitioners throughout the week.

Attending Black Hat USA 2026? We'd be delighted to connect and discuss the future of AI, cybersecurity and resilient digital infrastructure.