A team of cyber apprentices based in Bristol has participated in their first international cybersecurity exercise. The group from Leonardo took part in Defence Cyber Marvel, which is the largest multinational cyber challenge of its kind, coordinated by the UK Ministry of Defence.

During the week-long event, eleven apprentices from the company’s Cyber and Security division worked alongside Royal Signals reservists. To participate, the team adopted Singapore’s time zone to defend a network involving Windows, Linux and networking systems against various simulated attacks. Working with military counterparts, the apprentices assisted in securing critical systems and performed threat-hunting tasks to manage potential security breaches.

Team lead Oliver described the experience as a milestone moment: “Because the exercise ran on Singapore time, we started our day at 1am UK time in our Bristol Security Operations Centre (SOC). While it was a struggle to adjust at first, the team quickly came together and we found the late nights added to the realism and intensity of the exercise and demonstrated the commitment and resilience the team of apprentices brought to the table.”

The apprentices received support from full-time staff at the company’s Bristol Security Operations Centre, as well as leadership and mentoring from Royal Signals personnel.

Oliver concluded: “This week was an incredibly valuable week for the whole team. As apprentices we are always looking for new opportunities, and this was the perfect way for us to improve our blue team skills and ensure that Leonardo is present on the forefront of cyber security exercises. Leonardo has strong ties to the MOD, and it is always a pleasure to strengthen and enhance those bonds.”

The exercise represents a significant step for the apprentices and highlights the contribution of the Bristol region to national cyber defence. The event also serves to reinforce the ongoing collaboration between the technology industry and the UK armed forces.

Image source: Leonardo