What happens when national security becomes a question of data—and who wields it best?

In this episode of Navigating Noise, I sat down with Martijn Rasser, Chief Strategy Officer at Datenna and a former CIA intelligence officer, to explore how emerging technologies and open-source intelligence (OSINT) are reshaping global power dynamics.

Martijn draws on his deep experience in the intelligence community and private sector to reveal how countries like China are leveraging innovations in quantum computing, biotechnology, and AI—and what the U.S. must do to stay ahead in this high-stakes competition.

Here are the top insights from our conversation. For the full story, be sure to listen to the full episode above.

Takeaway No. 1: The Innovation Arms Race Is Already Underway

China is advancing rapidly in fields like quantum computing and biotechnology, which Martijn sees as pivotal battlegrounds for future power dynamics. These technologies could disrupt everything from encryption systems to global health.

“The Chinese may be willing to use biotechnologies in a way that we wouldn’t want to see happen. And then with quantum, I think the risk for technology surprise is pretty significant there because there’s so much we don’t know about what different lines of research they’re pursuing.”

Martijn explains that staying ahead means not only advancing U.S. capabilities but also implementing strategic measures like export controls to slow China’s progress.

Takeaway No. 2: Open Data Is a Game-Changer for National Security

Contrary to popular belief, much of the intelligence world isn’t about secret files—it’s about analyzing the vast amounts of public information already available. Martijn shares how companies like Datenna use OSINT to track Chinese innovation from the ground up.

“We want to understand China’s technological innovation landscape as best as we possibly can. There’s a lot out there… so we focus on understanding how Chinese companies, universities, and research institutes engage in technological innovation.”

This approach helps policymakers uncover hidden patterns, such as how government funding flows from Beijing into military applications.

Takeaway No. 3: AI Is Revolutionizing Intelligence—But Humans Are Still Key

AI has transformed the speed and scale of data analysis, but Martijn is clear: machines don’t replace human judgment. The best results come from combining AI tools with human expertise.

“Those types of technologies that help the human analyst sift through and understand information faster and more effectively than ever before, that’s already taking place. But ultimately, you still need the human to guide what’s being analyzed and how.”

This partnership allows analysts to process massive datasets while staying focused on strategic priorities.

Takeaway No. 4: Assessing China’s Capabilities Requires Creativity

China’s tight control of information presents unique challenges for intelligence gathering. Martijn explains how Datenna tackles this by piecing together a mosaic of open-source data, from financial flows to university research.

“It’s a constant cat-and-mouse game to find information sources that can help you get to those answers. But I feel overall we’ve been quite successful… our information is being used every day to augment classified intelligence streams.”

This nuanced approach helps governments gain a clearer picture of China’s true technological capabilities.

Takeaway No. 5: The CIA’s Secret Weapon is Still People

While technology advances quickly, the CIA’s edge remains its human operatives. Martijn explains how OSINT allows intelligence agencies to focus on their unique strengths, such as deploying assets in the field.

“Open-source augments classified holdings, allowing the intelligence community to focus on what it does best: acquiring information that no one else can.”

By dividing responsibilities, agencies and private intelligence firms like Datenna can maximize their impact.

The Bottom Line

Martijn Rasser makes one thing clear: the future of national security lies at the intersection of emerging technologies and data-driven intelligence.

As China pushes forward in fields like biotech and quantum computing, tools like OSINT and AI will play an increasingly critical role in leveling the playing field. But as Martijn reminds us, technology is only as good as the humans guiding it.

Listen to the full episode here for deeper insights into the strategies shaping global security.

At Filter Labs, we know the power of merging open-source intelligence with advanced analytics to navigate today’s most complex geopolitical challenges. We help decision-makers uncover the insights they need when it matters most.