As part of the initiative, Australia's first dedicated space cyber testing and training facility will be developed. Its primary goal will provide space operators and cyber practitioners with a simulation environment to enhance their skills and test space hardware and services.

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Enhancing Sovereign Capability

According to CyberOps Director Daniel Floreani, this project will elevate Australia's sovereign capability in space cybersecurity and contribute to secure, uninterrupted use of our space assets. With the increasing reliance on satellites and space-based communication systems, fortifying space cybersecurity is paramount.

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The project also will include comprehensive training materials to promote best-practice cybersecurity for both existing and emerging space technologies and assets. As a result, advances in space cybersecurity will extend beyond other areas, strengthening broader cyber and information warfare efforts.

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Recognition and Contribution in Cybersecurity

Deputy Premier of South Australia and Minister for Defense and Space Industries, Susan Close, applauded CyberOps for their contribution to the nation's security, noting that the state is well-placed to lead developments at the intersection of space and cybersecurity.

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In line with their commitment to fostering sovereign space cyber capability, CyberOps, alongside Agora High-Tech and Flinders University, is co-hosting the inaugural Australian Space Cyber Forum in Adelaide this October. This collaborative effort underscores the dedication of various stakeholders to advancing Australia's position in space cybersecurity.

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In essence, CyberOps' $2.5 million contract with the Department of Defense marks a significant stride towards enhancing Australia's space sector cybersecurity resilience. The establishment of a space cyber testing and training facility reinforces the nation's commitment to safeguarding critical space infrastructure and sensitive data against evolving cyber threats.

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_{Author: Nessa, Cyber Journalist}

‍_{Source: https://defencesa.com/news-events-and-media/news/cyberops-to-uplift-national-cyber-security-in-space/}

_{Photo: iss063e055126 (July 23, 2020) - Perth, Australia is pictured from the International Space Station as it orbited west of the city above the Indian Ocean during an orbital night period.}

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