Representatives of Ukraine will take part in the largest realistic NATO cyber defense exercise Locked Shields 2024, which will be held under the auspices of the NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence in Estonia. This was reported by the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine on Facebook.

Approximately 4,000 experts from over 40 countries will participate in the Locked Shields 2024 exercise, where they will be tasked with defending the infrastructure of a fictitious nation and its allies under conditions closely resembling real-world scenarios.

"They will face a series of challenges that replicate the complexity of cyber defense in the real world, including critical thinking, strategic decision-making, legal aspects, crisis communication, and strategic planning. All of this is aimed at strengthening their capabilities in cyber defense," the NSDC noted.

The strength of the exercises lies in their comprehensive approach, combining technical skills with strategic, legal, and communication knowledge to develop a multifaceted defense strategy.

The NSDC emphasized that the expanded participation of various countries and partners demonstrates the global reach and importance of Locked Shields 2024, which is evidence of the vital role of these exercises in enhancing international cooperation in the field of cyber defense. Locked Shields serves as a platform for countries to exchange advanced expertise, implement innovative strategies, and collectively improve their capabilities to respond to cyber incidents.

"These exercises demonstrate the power of international cooperation, overcoming borders, and bringing together a community of experts from different sectors, including government, private, and academic. We are grateful for the dedication and experience of our allies and all our partners, who are essential in building a resilient global cyber defense," said NATO CCDCOE Exercise Director Lieutenant Colonel Urmet Tomp.

Deputy Secretary of the National Security and Defense Council of Ukraine Serhiy Demediuk revealed that Ukraine will join forces with the Czech Republic in a joint team for these exercises.

"Joint skill development, experience sharing, and collaboration are key elements on the path to effectively counteracting modern cyber threats," he added.

It is worth noting that Ukraine joined the NATO Cyber Centre in March 2022.