Operational Phase of Exercise Locked Shields Begins with an International Team Led by Spain

Operational Phase of Exercise Locked Shields Begins with an International Team Led by Spain

The operational phase of Locked Shields 25, the world’s premier cyber defense exercise, has begun. Organized from Estonia by NATO’s Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence (CCDCOE). Spain leads Blue Team–15 (BT-15), a multinational team composed of experts from the Joint Cyberspace Command and the Spanish Armed Forces, along with military personnel from Switzerland and Brazil, members of national law enforcement agencies, and professionals from the private sector.

In this newly launched phase, technical teams are prepared to face a wide array of cyber challenges, where they must demonstrate technical skills, teamwork, and the ability to operate under pressure. The simulated scenario involves sustained cyberattacks and hybrid threats targeting critical infrastructure.

This event marks the most important annual milestone in cyber defense training and instruction. It also serves as a valuable platform for public-private, civil-military cooperation.

Over the coming days, scenario events will escalate in both scale and complexity. All participating teams will be assessed, and at the conclusion of the exercise, lessons learned will be shared. Participants will be able to apply the knowledge and skills gained in their respective roles, thereby contributing to improved cyber defense and system resilience. 

In addition to the technical operators, the Strategic Communications (StratCom) and Legal Advisory (LEGAD) teams play a vital role in the planning and execution of any military operation.