Novel Cybersecurity Framework for AI-Driven Drone Integration by Critical SMEs in Economically Distressed U.S. Rural Communities: Advancing Secure Precision Operations in High-Risk Environments

Abstract

As industrial ecosystems evolve from Industry 4.0 to the human-centric paradigm of Industry 5.0, integrating ethical artificial intelligence (AI), resilience, and cybersecurity has become vital. Industry 5.0 emphasizes not only automation but also sustainability, trust, and human-machine collaboration. These environments, particularly those utilizing AI for decision-making and threat management, pose complex cybersecurity and ethical challenges.

This article proposes a novel “Trust-by-Design” cybersecurity framework tailored for Industry 5.0 settings. Grounded in the NIST Cybersecurity Framework (Identify, Protect, Detect, Respond, Recover), it integrates AI into each domain to enhance resilience and operational transparency. A systematic literature review (SLR) of 2,395 publications—narrowed to 236 peer-reviewed sources—guides the framework’s development. AI use cases are mapped across cybersecurity functions, including intrusion detection, behavioral analysis, access control, blockchain-based audits, and automated recovery.

Additionally, the framework applies an AI capability taxonomy (perception, learning, reasoning, communication, planning) to align technical roles with trust-enabling mechanisms. Key gaps in empirical validation are noted, emphasizing the need for real-world pilot testing in high-risk sectors like smart manufacturing and healthcare.

To facilitate adoption, the paper outlines a modular deployment strategy involving stakeholder engagement, regulatory alignment, and ethical compliance. The resulting model offers a scalable, interdisciplinary approach for integrating secure and trustworthy AI into Industry 5.0 operations, supporting researchers, policymakers, and cybersecurity professionals alike.