Slovenia has enhanced its cyber defence capabilities with a substantial $30 million contribution from the United States. This aid aims to fortify the communication and information systems of the Slovenian Armed Forces (SAF) and the Ministry of Defence (MoD).
The ministry assures that the maintenance and expert support for the received equipment are guaranteed for the next three years. Moreover, the integration of this equipment included fundamental training for system operators.
Defence Minister Marjan Šarec and US Ambassador to Slovenia Jamie Harpootlian were present at a ceremony on November 10, marking the handover of the donated hardware and software. These will support the MoD’s Security Operations Centre and the Cyber Training Centre.
Šarec highlighted the significance of the Cyber Training Centre’s new capabilities, noting its unique role in Slovenia. He stressed its importance for the defence system, national security, and vital infrastructure operators within the country. This centre represents a novel, enhanced form of collaboration within the regional framework of Western Balkan NATO partner countries.
Šarec further remarked on the current global cyber threats, underscoring the timeliness and relevance of this joint Slovenian-US project.
Ambassador Harpootlian emphasised that this donation symbolises the deep and enduring partnership between the US and Slovenia. The state-of-the-art Cyber Training Centre and Security Operations Centre are pivotal in enhancing cyber resilience and supporting Slovenia’s expanding role in regional and global cyber security leadership.
Photo: gov.si