ECYBRIDGE: Strengthening Synergies in Defence and Civilian Cybersecurity
In an era where cyber threats evolve at an unprecedented pace, strengthening cooperation between the civilian and defense sectors has never been more critical. Launched in June 2024, ECYBRIDGE is a pan-European initiative designed to unify cybersecurity capabilities, foster innovation, and enhance Europe’s resilience against emerging threats. With a duration of 24 months and a budget of €2.49 million, the project brings together 17 organizations from four EU countries, spanning public institutions, private entities, academia, and NGOs, all committed to creating a digitally secure and resilient Europe.
At the heart of ECYBRIDGE is the mission to bridge the cybersecurity expertise of civilian and defense sectors, promoting collaboration through joint training sessions, research dissemination, and policy alignment. The project operates within the framework of key EU cybersecurity policies, ensuring a structured and coordinated approach to tackling modern cyber risks. Through international conferences, roundtables, white papers, and specialized exercises, ECYBRIDGE facilitates knowledge-sharing and strategic cooperation, strengthening Europe’s digital infrastructure in an increasingly complex cyber landscape.
InnovX plays an essential role in ECYBRIDGE, leveraging its expertise in startup acceleration, innovation ecosystems, and digital transformation. As a key partner, InnovX contributes to the project’s mission by fostering cross-sector collaboration, supporting cybersecurity startups and scale-ups, and helping translate cutting-edge research into practical solutions for both civilian and defence applications. By facilitating networking opportunities and knowledge exchange between cybersecurity innovators, corporations, and policymakers, InnovX ensures that ECYBRIDGE remains at the forefront of European cybersecurity advancements.
Since its launch, ECYBRIDGE has made significant strides in developing a unified cybersecurity framework, bringing together diverse stakeholders to address the shared vulnerabilities of the digital age. The project has already set in motion high-impact training sessions, workshops, and research initiatives, laying the groundwork for enhanced interoperability and coordinated cyber defence strategies. As it moves forward, ECYBRIDGE continues to drive critical discussions, test real-world cyber threat scenarios, and refine cybersecurity policies that will shape the future of Europe’s digital security.
Laying the Foundation: The Official Launch of ECYBRIDGE (June 2024)
The ECYBRIDGE journey officially began in June 2024 with its highly anticipated launch, marking the start of an ambitious effort to enhance coordination and synergy between the civilian and defence sectors in cybersecurity. The launch event set the stage for the project’s long-term objectives, focusing on bridging gaps between military and civilian cybersecurity frameworks, fostering collaboration between industry and government, and building a sustainable cybersecurity ecosystem.
InnovX took an important role in this initial phase, highlighting its commitment to empowering cybersecurity startups and DeepTech innovators, particularly in critical infrastructure sectors such as energy, digital services, and transportation. The launch event also served as an opportunity to introduce the key team members leading the project, including Gabriel Raicu , Rector of Universitatea Maritim? din Constan?a and Nicu Iancu , Vice President of MARITIME CYBERSECURITY CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE .
As part of this initial phase, ECYBRIDGE also introduced its core consortium of partners, a diverse group comprising cybersecurity firms, research institutions, defence organizations, and public agencies, such as: BIT SENTINEL, MARITIME CYBERSECURITY CENTRE OF EXCELLENCE, Directoratul Na?ional de Securitate Cibernetic?, CYSCOE - Cyber Security Cluster of Excellence , Cyber Dacians - StageOne, Infili Technologies SA, ARASEC, Beia Consult International, Universitatea Nationala de Aparare "Carol I" - CIPS Study Centre, Military Technical Academy "Ferdinand I" , Baltic Defence College, Euro-Atlantic Resilience Centre, INSTITUTUL NA?IONAL DE CERCETARE-DEZVOLTARE ?N INFORMATIC? - ICI BUCURE?TI, the Romanian Association for Information Security Assurance (RAISA). These partnerships reinforce the project’s multidisciplinary approach, ensuring that expertise from both defence and civilian sectors is integrated into ECYBRIDGE’s cybersecurity framework.
With the foundation set, ECYBRIDGE is now moving into its implementation phase, rolling out key initiatives including specialized training sessions, policy development workshops, and research collaborations aimed at fortifying Europe’s cyber resilience.
ECYBRIDGE Workshop and Tabletop Exercise
As part of its ongoing efforts to bridge the gap between civilian and military cybersecurity, ECYBRIDGE hosted a high-impact workshop and Tabletop Exercise in October, focusing on the evolving role of cyber warfare. Organized by Directoratul Na?ional de Securitate Cibernetic? (DNSC), the event brought together key experts from NATO DIANA , the Romanian Ministry of Defence, cybersecurity firms, and academic institutions to analyze the growing intersection of cyber threats in modern conflicts.
With lessons drawn from the war in Ukraine, the workshop explored how digital attacks have become an integral part of hybrid warfare, targeting both critical infrastructure and national security networks. Discussions emphasized the increasing interdependence between civilian and defence sectors, stressing the urgent need for coordinated response strategies and information-sharing mechanisms. Participants engaged in case studies and interactive training sessions, analyzing real-world incidents to refine cybersecurity resilience strategies.
The event also included live technology demonstrations from Safetech Innovations and BIT SENTINEL , showcasing advanced cybersecurity solutions designed to mitigate cyber threats at both national and corporate levels. Offensive cybersecurity simulations conducted by Cyber Dacians provided participants with a deeper understanding of modern cyberattack methodologies and the tactics used to safeguard digital assets against evolving threats.
The second part of the event, the Tabletop Exercise, simulated real-time cyber threats targeting critical infrastructure, testing the ability of public, private, and defence institutions to respond effectively in high-pressure scenarios. InnovX played an active role in this simulation, working alongside European cybersecurity specialists to develop response strategies for potential large-scale cyber incidents.
A key highlight was the opening panel discussion, moderated by Valeria Popescu, Team Coordinator at DNSC, which brought together leading cybersecurity figures, including:
The discussion centered on the need for a unified cybersecurity strategy across Europe, the role of public-private partnerships in enhancing digital resilience, and the continuous evolution of cyber warfare tactics. Participants emphasized the importance of multi-sector collaboration in fortifying cybersecurity across administrative, financial, and operational networks.
The insights gained from this workshop and exercise will contribute directly to the next phases of the ECYBRIDGE project, shaping future training programs, policy recommendations, and research initiatives. By bringing together cybersecurity experts from both civilian and military backgrounds, this event reinforced the project’s commitment to building a more coordinated and resilient European cybersecurity framework.
Advancing Cybersecurity Through Collaboration: ECYBRIDGE Workshop on Digital Threats
As the digital landscape continues to evolve, so do the complexities of cybersecurity. The ECYBRIDGE project remains committed to fostering collaboration between civilian and defence sectors, ensuring a unified approach to tackling emerging cyber challenges. One of the key milestones in this effort was the recent workshop, “Cyber Frontiers in Conflict: Understanding the Ukraine War’s Digital Dimensions,” which brought together leading cybersecurity experts, policymakers, and industry specialists to analyze how digital threats are reshaping security frameworks across sectors.
This workshop provided a unique platform for strategic discussions on the role of cybersecurity in high-risk environments, featuring insights from Major General Eugen MAVRIS (Carol I National Defence University), Prof. Gabriel Raicu and Nicu Iancu ( Universitatea Maritim? din Constan?a ) and Dan Cimpean (National Cybersecurity Directorate). The event also welcomed expert contributions from Amb. Shota Gvineria ( Baltic Defence College ), Piret Pernik ( NATO Cooperative Cyber Defence Centre of Excellence (CCDCOE) ), Mihai Olteanu (Romanian Intelligence Service) and Marian T?l?u (Romanian Cyber Defence Command), among others, who examined the broader implications of cyber threats across both public and private infrastructures.
With an increasing reliance on interconnected digital systems, the discussions emphasized the need for enhanced cooperation and knowledge-sharing between institutions, businesses, and cybersecurity professionals. Attacks targeting critical infrastructure, whether in energy, finance, or telecommunications, demonstrate how vulnerabilities in one sector can have cascading effects across multiple domains. By addressing these risks through joint research, policy development, and industry-led innovations, the workshop reinforced the importance of a proactive, cross-sector approach to cybersecurity resilience.
Industry leaders from Safetech Innovations , BIT SENTINEL and Cyber Dacians showcased state-of-the-art cybersecurity solutions, threat detection methodologies, and digital defence strategies, providing participants with practical insights into the evolving nature of cyber risks. The event also highlighted the role of dual-use technologies, where advancements in commercial cybersecurity tools are being adapted for broader security applications, fostering a more agile and effective response to cyber incidents.
Through in-depth discussions, case studies, and hands-on exercises, the workshop underscored the importance of strategic cybersecurity planning and preparedness in an increasingly digitalized world. By bringing together experts from both civilian and defence sectors.
ECYBRIDGE International Conference: Uniting Cybersecurity Experts for a Resilient Digital Future
The ECYBRIDGE International Conference, held from December 3-5, 2024, in Constan?a, Romania, brought together some of the most influential voices in cybersecurity to discuss the challenges and opportunities in strengthening Europe's cyber resilience. With cyber threats growing in both complexity and scale, the event provided a platform for collaboration between civilian, defence, and private-sector experts, focusing on technological innovation, policy alignment, and investment in cybersecurity solutions.
Under the theme “Civilian and Defence Synergy in a Digitalised World,” discussions explored the shared vulnerabilities of digital infrastructure, the role of dual-use technologies, and the pressing need for unified cybersecurity frameworks. Experts from leading institutions, government agencies, and industry pioneers examined the evolving landscape of cyber threats and the importance of coordinated action across multiple sectors.
The first two days of the conference featured keynotes, expert panels, and technology showcases, where cybersecurity leaders, policymakers, and researchers addressed the latest developments in AI-driven security, cyber defence strategies, and policy integration. Speakers such as Major General Eugen MAVRIS , Prof. Gabriel Raicu , Dan Cimpean , Amb. Shota Gvineria and Mihai Olteanu contributed valuable insights into how Europe can enhance its cybersecurity resilience through a combination of cross-border collaboration and technological advancements. Industry leaders from Safetech Innovations, BIT SENTINEL, and Cyber Dacians also presented cutting-edge security solutions designed to protect critical infrastructure and digital ecosystems.
CyberX Day: InnovX’s Hands-On Approach to Cybersecurity Innovation
The final day of the conference was dedicated to CyberX Day, a dynamic event led by InnovX, bringing a practical, hands-on approach to cybersecurity innovation. The day focused on bridging technological advancements with investment opportunities and policy frameworks, ensuring that groundbreaking cybersecurity solutions translate into real-world impact.
Opening remarks from Gabriel Raicu, Rector of Constan?a Maritime University, set the stage for a deep dive into the latest cybersecurity innovations, followed by a keynote on Quantum Key Distribution by Sorin-Robertino Sintea , which explored next-generation encryption technologies.
One of the major highlights of CyberX Day was the New Technologies Showcase, where pioneering companies demonstrated cutting-edge solutions in cybersecurity, IoT, energy security, and Industry 4.0. Presenters included:
The conference’s culminating moment was a high-intensity cybersecurity simulation, designed to test participants’ response strategies against large-scale cyber threats. Led by Ovidiu Pismac and Iulian Alecu , with support from Adrian Marinescu of 安永 , the simulation challenged teams to analyze threats, coordinate responses, and develop crisis mitigation strategies. This interactive session reinforced the importance of collaboration and strategic preparedness in tackling real-world cyber incidents. Following the simulation, Emanuel Cernat served as Chair of the Board, delivering key actionable conclusions and recommendations on behalf of the evaluation panel. His insights provided a strategic outlook on how cybersecurity frameworks can be strengthened, outlining critical next steps for policy implementation and industry collaboration.
The event concluded with final reflections from Nicu Iancu and Gabriel Raicu , who highlighted the key takeaways from the conference and emphasized the need for ongoing cooperation between civilian and defence cybersecurity stakeholders.
With critical discussions, technological breakthroughs, and practical exercises, the ECYBRIDGE International Conference solidified itself as a key initiative driving cybersecurity collaboration across Europe. Looking ahead, the project will continue its work in enhancing cybersecurity frameworks, fostering public-private partnerships, and supporting the next generation of cybersecurity solutions.
Kicking Off 2025: ECYBRIDGE’s First Cybersecurity Workshop of the Year
With a new year comes new challenges and opportunities in cybersecurity and ECYBRIDGE wasted no time in setting the stage for strategic collaboration and knowledge-sharing. On January 16, 2025, ECYBRIDGE hosted its first major workshop of the year, with both in-person and online participation. Provided by the Euro-Atlantic Resilience Centre , the event brought together cybersecurity experts, policymakers, and industry leaders to explore the evolving threat landscape and innovative resilience strategies.
Guided by distinguished speakers such as Ambassador Lucian F?tu , Prof. Gabriel Raicu , Nicu Iancu , Hristian Daskalov, PhD , Andrei IONITA , Daniel Leu , Gabriel Puiu and Johannes Steger , the discussions focused on cyber threat evolution, strategic planning, and resilience policies in an increasingly complex digital environment. The workshop provided a practical, hands-on learning experience, featuring interactive exercises such as STEEP analysis and scenario planning, allowing participants to develop actionable cybersecurity insights.
Facilitators Valentin E. ., Gabriela Matei and Assoc. Prof. Eduard-Cristian Popovici led sessions designed to strengthen cross-sector collaboration and crisis response coordination, reinforcing the importance of multilateral partnerships in defending against emerging cyber threats. As ECYBRIDGE continues to drive cybersecurity innovation across Europe, workshops like this serve as essential building blocks in fostering resilience, adaptability, and strategic preparedness for the challenges ahead.
Advancing Cybersecurity Training: RiskSight Kicks Off ECYBRIDGE Online Sessions
The project launched an online training initiative led by RiskSight , bringing together experts to align on best practices, intelligence-sharing mechanisms, and strategic cyber defence cooperation.
This kick-off session, hosted by Markus Ilmar Münzer and Kari-Pekka Rannikko , introduced a structured training program aimed at tackling key cybersecurity challenges across multiple domains. As an active partner in ECYBRIDGE, InnovX participated in the session, contributing insights into how startups and scale-ups can bridge the cybersecurity gap between civilian and defence sectors.
The ECYBRIDGE training program will address several critical areas, including:
With this structured training approach, ECYBRIDGE continues to lay the foundation for a more coordinated and proactive cybersecurity landscape in Europe, ensuring that stakeholders across sectors have the knowledge, tools, and networks necessary to counter evolving digital threats.
Shaping the Future of European Cybersecurity
With each milestone, ECYBRIDGE has reinforced its role as a key driver of cybersecurity collaboration in Europe, uniting civilian and defence stakeholders, fostering technological innovation, and strengthening resilience against digital threats. From hands-on workshops and high-level conferences to strategic training sessions, the project has continually provided a platform for meaningful dialogue, real-world scenario testing, and forward-thinking policy development.
The ECYBRIDGE International Conference in Constan?a served as a defining moment, bringing together experts from across sectors to discuss the evolving cybersecurity landscape and the importance of public-private partnerships. InnovX played an integral role in shaping CyberX Day, which introduced groundbreaking technologies and provided participants with a firsthand experience of crisis response through an immersive cybersecurity simulation. These interactions highlighted the need for continuous adaptation and investment in Europe’s cybersecurity ecosystem.
As the project moved into 2025, new training programs and workshops further solidified ECYBRIDGE’s mission to build a cohesive framework for cybersecurity cooperation. The first major workshop of the year, hosted in Bucharest, facilitated critical discussions on cyber resilience strategies, while the online training sessions provided a structured approach to bridging the cybersecurity gap between civilian and defence sectors. Through these initiatives, ECYBRIDGE has ensured that cybersecurity professionals, policymakers, and technology leaders remain at the forefront of the fight against emerging threats.
Looking ahead, the project remains committed to enhancing cybersecurity synergies, expanding knowledge-sharing networks, and cultivating a new generation of cyber leaders. The insights gathered, partnerships formed, and challenges tackled throughout this journey will continue to shape the future of digital security across Europe, ensuring that cyber resilience remains a priority in an increasingly interconnected world.