The Advanced European Platform and Network of Cybersecurity Training and Exercises Centres (ACTING) project aims to revolutionize cybersecurity training across Europe. By developing a robust network of advanced, interconnected (federated) cyber ranges dedicated to domain-specific scenarios, ACTING is poised to dramatically enhance cyber defence capabilities. This innovative project will integrate sophisticated user simulation techniques, detailed performance analysis, and dynamic scoring systems to evaluate and improve cybersecurity situational awareness across the board.
At the heart of the ACTING project is a commitment to bolster the European Union’s proactive cyber defence training. By fostering effective multi-domain collaboration and utilizing cutting-edge technologies, the project sets new standards for cybersecurity excellence. This includes the development of tools for user simulation, automated performance analysis, a specialized language for creating large-scale, complex scenarios, and a unified federation of cyber ranges to facilitate seamless information exchange and a shared understanding of cybersecurity threats and responses.
The ACTING project is a forward-looking 48-month initiative spearheaded by a consortium of 28 entities from 13 EU Member States, including Austria, Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Italy, Netherlands, Portugal, Romania, and Spain. The project is jointly supported by six EU Member States: Belgium, Bulgaria, Cyprus, Netherlands, Portugal, and Spain. Through its comprehensive approach, the ACTING project aims to enhance the efficiency and effectiveness of cyber defence training and exercises, equipping European cyber defence operators with the tools and knowledge necessary to stay ahead of emerging threats.
Key Initiatives within the ACTING Project:
- Expansive Network: Developing a network of federated, domain-oriented cyber ranges for comprehensive training and rigorous exercises.
- Advanced Simulation Tools: Implementing tools that simulate realistic user interactions to challenge and refine the skills of cyber operators.
- Specialized Scenario Language: Crafting a language for the development of large-scale, complex training scenarios.
- Federation of Cyber Ranges: Establishing a unified federation that fosters seamless information exchange and improves common cyber situational awareness.
Key Use Cases Focused by ACTING’s Cyber Ranges:
Multi-Domain Defense: Simulating combined cyber attacks against joint Headquarters (HQ), Land, and Navy Communication and Information Systems (CIS). These simulations assess the impact on strategic planning, logistics, and high-level coordination, identifying vulnerabilities and testing resilience.
Space-Maritime Security: Focused on the Space and Maritime sectors, particularly in transportation and military applications. Simulated attacks on satellite systems evaluate repercussions on positioning, navigation, and timing systems, all of which are critical for operational security.
Civilian Sector Impact: Investigating the cascading effects of cyber attacks on IoT systems within the civilian sector. These simulations help understand how breaches in commercial networks compromise personal and health information, impacting security and privacy.
For more detailed information and updates on the ACTING project, please visit the official website: ACTING Project Website.