Thales Unveils High-Tech Cyber Training Arena for Dutch Defence Forces
In the Netherlands, the Defence Cyber Command (DCC), in collaboration with Thales, has formed a partnership to create a cutting-edge cybersecurity training and evaluation center, referred to as the “Cyber Range”. This facility aims to acquire vital cybersecurity skills for the training and education of military personnel.
To continually improve the reliability and security of its sensor arrays, weapon systems, command and control systems, information networks, and digital infrastructure, the DCC must rapidly and effectively address emerging threats while developing and testing new cyber-defense strategies. The Thales “Cyber Range” will enable both small-scale and large-scale training exercises.
This facility allows for the simulation and assessment of cyber-attacks, incidents, and defense strategies against various defense systems, IT ecosystems, and communication networks. As part of the agreement, Thales will construct the center and provide ongoing support for a duration of three years.
Brigadier General and Commander of the DCC, Hans Folmer, remarked, “The Cyber Range signifies a substantial progress for the Defence Cyber Command (DCC). It offers a platform where numerous cyber operations can be replicated. This is essential for training our personnel and evaluating our systems.”
The Defence Cyber Command (DCC) is a division of the Dutch Armed Forces responsible for developing and enhancing cyber capabilities and executing cyber operations. A key component of the DCC is the Defence Cyber Expertise Centre (DCEC), designed to enhance specific knowledge and innovative potential within the cyber domain.
The Dutch Ministry of Defence maintains a long-standing partnership with Thales in the field of cybersecurity. Thales is instrumental in securing NATO communication pathways and has recently embarked on a study focused on Cyber Situational Awareness in partnership with the DCC and the Dutch research organization TNO. This study explores how current SEWACO systems (Sensors, Weapons, and Command Systems) can be securely employed in the future. The Cyber Range represents a significant advancement in bolstering this collaboration.
