Hariprasad Sivaraman, USA Introduction: Safeguarding the Backbone of the Nation Critical infrastructure, including power grids, water systems, transportation networks, and communication systems, forms the backbone of the United States’ economy and national security. These systems are increasingly interconnected, relying on digital networks to operate efficiently. However, this interconnectedness also exposes them to a growing array of cyber threats, from ransomware to state-sponsored attacks. Protecting these vital assets is a top priority, and AI-powered threat intelligence networks are emerging as a key solution to enhance resilience, improve detection, and enable rapid response against evolving cyber threats. The Rising Threat to Critical…