Representatives of Ukraine will participate in Locked Shields 2024, the world’s largest realistic cyber defense exercises, highlighting the global community’s determination to combat cyber threats. Organized by NATO’s Joint Center for Cyber ​​Defense Technology Advancement (NATO CCDCOE), this annual exercise goes beyond traditional cyber exercises by bringing together experts from various fields to counter cyber threats.

This year, nearly 4,000 experts from more than 40 countries will join forces in a simulated environment during Locked Shields to protect the infrastructure of a fictional nation and its country. They will face a series of challenges that mimic the complexity of real-world cyber defense, including critical thinking, strategic decision-making, legal considerations, crisis communications and strategic planning. All of this is aimed at strengthening cyber defense capabilities.

The strength of the exercise is the integrated approach that combines technical skills with strategic, legal and communications knowledge to develop a well-rounded defense strategy. Participants are encouraged to use their collective skills, contributing to an environment where collaboration is key to tackling the complex challenges of cybersecurity.

Expanding the participation of various countries and partners demonstrates the global reach and significance of Locked Shields 2024; This is a testament to the important role of these exercises in strengthening international cooperation in the field of cyber defence. As a platform, Locked Shields enables countries to share best practices, implement innovative strategies, and jointly enhance cyber incident response capabilities.

Lieutenant Colonel Urmet Tomp, head of NATO CCDCOE exercises, emphasized: In keeping with the spirit of collaboration that defines Locked Shields: “These exercises are a demonstration of the power of international cooperation, crossing borders and bringing together a diverse community of experts from the public, private sector and academics. “We are grateful for the dedication and expertise of our allies and all our partners who are critical to building a resilient global cyber defense.”

Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Serhiy Demedyuk emphasized About the importance of the participation of Ukrainian experts in the Locked Shields cyber training to strengthen both national and international cyber resilience. “This year, Ukraine is joining forces with the Czech Republic with a joint team in these exercises. Joint development of skills, sharing of experience and cooperation are the key elements to effectively combat modern cyber threats.”

As Locked Shields approaches the start of 2024, the support of participating nations and partners reflects a shared commitment to strengthening our cyber defenses. Since its inception in 2010, Locked Shields has become the largest realistic cyber defense exercise in the world and has set the standard for international cooperation and comprehensive cyber preparedness.

About NATO CCDCOE

CCDCOE is a NATO-approved knowledge center based in Tallinn (Estonia) and offers a unique interdisciplinary approach to the most pressing cyber defense challenges. At the heart of CCDCOE is a comprehensive group of international experts from military, government, academia and industry, currently representing 39 sponsoring and participating countries. CCDCOE promotes and supports the integration of cybersecurity into NATO and national governance and the development of capabilities in closely related fields, including technology, strategic research, operations and law. CCDCOE is also responsible for defining and coordinating education and training solutions in the field of cyber defense operations for all NATO bodies in the Alliance.