Locked Shields 2026: 41 Nations Strengthen Cyber Resilience in World’s Biggest Exercise
Summary
The Locked Shields 2026 exercise saw 41 nations participating, significantly increasing its scale from its initial four nations 16 years ago. This event is recognized as the world's largest cyber resilience exercise, aimed at strengthening cooperative defense capabilities.
IFF Assessment
This exercise represents a positive development for defenders as it highlights international cooperation and preparedness in enhancing cyber resilience.
Defender Context
This exercise demonstrates a growing global commitment to improving collective cyber defense. Defenders should be aware of the increasing sophistication and coordination of international cyber defense exercises, which can inform best practices and highlight areas for improvement in national and organizational security strategies.