Tony Grist
SAGAMI DEPOT, Japan — A Cyber mission element from the Multi-Domain Effects Battalion (MDEB), 3rd Multi-Domain Task Force’s, partnered with joint and allied forces to conduct defensive cyber operations as part of Keen Sword 25 from Oct. 23 to Nov. 1, 2024.
A MDEB Defensive Cyber Operations (DCO) Mission Element partnered with Japanese and Canadian cyber professionals to defend mission critical infrastructure from adversary intrusions on a live cyber range. Using various cyber tools, the teams successfully mapped the network, discovered red team intrusions and then conducted hunt operations to restore full network operability.
“Cyber mission elements are a key component of multi-domain effects battalions that provide allies and the joint force additional cyber capability able to protect key infrastructure, enhance overall mission readiness across the full spectrum of military operations, and counter emerging digital threats in today’s complex operational environment,” said Lt. Col. Pablo Diaz, Commander of the 3rd MDEB.
The mission element executed multiple training iterations against a live adversarial red team alongside their allied partners.
The training objectives for the MDEB cyber mission element were to validate the readiness of the DCO mission element, refine standard operating procedures, and to build relationships with allied partner cyber units.
“My team integrated with our partners, leveraged cyber tools, and defended several critical infrastructure networks against a dynamic red team on a live network. It was a great training event where we were able to apply our skills and collaborate with our allies,” said MDEB Cyber Officer in Charge 2nd Lt. Lucas Bires.
Keen Sword is a biennial, joint, and bilateral field-training exercise involving U.S. military and Japan Self-Defense Forces personnel, designed to increase readiness and interoperability while strengthening the ironclad U.S.-Japan alliance.
Keen Sword 25 is the latest iteration of the exercise which was first conducted in 1986. Keen Sword provides realistic, relevant training that increases the Joint Force’s abilities to plan, communicate, and conduct complex multi-domain operations.
By SGT Perla Alfaro
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