Maritime cybersecurity course at MARCYSCOE, under the aegis of the European Security and Defence College
Event report, 2024.
ProDefence took part in the Maritime Cybersecurity Course hosted by the Maritime Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence (MARCYSCOE) at Constanța Maritime University. The two-day programme was organised under the aegis of the European Security and Defence College (ESDC) and focused on protecting maritime operations against cyber threats.
Key points
- Shipping and ports depend on interconnected systems: navigation, cargo management, port logistics, communications.
- The course covered EU maritime cybersecurity policy, technical tools and strategies for identifying and managing threats.
- Participants came from the public and private sectors, from Romania and other countries.
- International and cross-sector cooperation is essential, since maritime incidents rarely stay within one jurisdiction.
Why maritime cybersecurity matters
Maritime operations rely more and more on digital technologies. A ransomware attack on a port operator, a compromised cargo management system or interference with navigation data can stop the movement of goods and affect entire supply chains. Ports and shipping companies are also covered by NIS2 in the transport sector, which adds legal obligations to the operational risk.
What the course covered
- EU policy on maritime cybersecurity;
- technological tools used to protect maritime systems;
- strategies for identifying and managing cyber threats;
- real case studies, interactive workshops and classes led by specialists.
Cooperation across borders and sectors
A highlight of the course was the interaction between participants from different countries and from both the public and private sectors. The exchange of ideas and practices supports stronger cross-border and cross-sector partnerships, which maritime security needs.
Thanks to the Maritime Cybersecurity Centre of Excellence for organising the programme.
Related
See the report from the BlackSea Maritime Cybersecurity Conference. For transport-sector organisations preparing for NIS2, ProDefence offers NIS2 compliance consulting and penetration testing.
