Cyber security specialist, CyberOps, is delivering a project to increase the cyber security readiness of Australia’s space sector, after securing a $2.5 million contract with the Department of Defence.
CyberOps was founded in South Australia in 2016, it provides cyber security services to the Australian Space Agency, and is a member of the Australian Cyber Collaboration Centre and the global Space ISAC centre.
The project aims to boost the space sector’s capability to protect the nation’s critical space infrastructure and sensitive data from ever-evolving cyber threats.
CyberOps Director, Daniel Floreani, said it would involve developing Australia’s first dedicated space cyber testing and training facility.
“The Adelaide-based facility will provide world-class testing and training to hundreds of people, to lift the cyber security posture of our space industry and enhance Australia’s sovereign capability in this key area of defence,” Dr Floreani said.
“With the increasing number of satellites and space-based communication systems that our population relies on, it’s essential to fortify our space cyber security defences. CyberOps is proud to provide our expertise and contribute to secure, uninterrupted use of Australia’s space assets.”
The facility will provide state-of-the-art testing for space hardware and services, and a simulation environment allowing space operators and cyber practitioners to develop and hone their skills.
The project will also develop comprehensive training material to support best-practice cyber security for Australia’s existing and emerging space technologies and assets.
CyberOps Director, Derek Grocke, said one of the benefits of working in space cyber security was that developments often applied to other earth-based projects.
“What we develop for space can often be used in the areas of cyber and information warfare more generally, so we’re able to enhance the security posture of Australia’s critical infrastructure more broadly,” Mr Grocke said.
CyberOps is also co-hosting the inaugural Australian Space Cyber Forum in Adelaide this October as part of its commitment to building sovereign space cyber capability and will bring together people from across the industry to learn from local and overseas experts.
The Space Cyber Forum will also provide an excellent opportunity for Australian stakeholders to meet and network with key national and international space cyber experts.
Participation in the forum is also targeted at researchers, entrepreneurs, academics, private consultants, public employers, and others with an interest in the space and cyber sectors.
