CybExer & Cyber Defense Labs boost Japan’s cyber defences

CybExer and Cyber Defence Labs have announced a partnership to enhance Japan's cyber resilience through advanced cyber training and response capabilities.

The partnership builds on an established working relationship between the two firms, replacing their earlier reseller arrangement with a broader strategic focus.

This collaboration comes during a period when Japan's digital infrastructure faces mounting risks, with calls from both the government and the private sector for improved cyber readiness and coordinated action.

Context of rising threats

The need for stronger cyber defences has grown as geopolitical tensions have increased and critical digital infrastructure has become a potential target. There is additional impetus following the passage of the Active Cyber Defence Bill, which aims to boost public-private cooperation on cybersecurity throughout Japan. Implementation of this policy requires sophisticated cyber training frameworks that can address a wide range of contemporary threats.

CybExer and Cyber Defence Labs have previously collaborated to adapt technology platforms, including the development of a full Japanese-language user interface, to meet local requirements. The renewed collaboration now commits both organisations to delivering an expanded range of cyber exercise and training tools to the Japanese market.

Training capabilities

The integrated platform will offer a range of capabilities, including live-fire simulations, digital twin-based environments for scenario training, and capture-the-flag exercises. The solution also specifically addresses emerging trends, such as artificial intelligence-driven threats and AI warfare, to prepare technical teams and decision-makers for changing cyber risks.

CybExer's technology is already in operational use in over 60 countries, with experiences supporting organisations such as NATO and the European Space Agency. This background is expected to facilitate the application of global best practices to the Japanese context.

"Our partnership with Cyber Defense Labs is an important milestone in our mission to enhance cybersecurity around the world. Japan is a key market, and we are proud to support government and critical infrastructure organisations as they strengthen their cyber resilience," said Andrus Kivisaar, Chief Executive Officer of CybExer.

Local expertise

Cyber Defence Labs, established as an independent entity following its separation from Soliton Systems in 2024, has focused on research aimed at developing effective defence measures against cyber threats. With a background of collaboration with university cybersecurity specialists, CDLabs has developed initiatives to build domestic cyber expertise and contribute to the national security environment.

"CybExer brings global perspective and real operational experience to the table. Together, we aim to contribute meaningfully to Japan's cybersecurity posture, and we are committed to building an environment where cyber public-private partnerships can thrive," said Toru Tsuchiya, Chief Executive Officer of CDLabs.

Through this partnership, both organisations will work to enhance the cyber-readiness of Japanese government agencies and critical infrastructure operators. The focus on public-private partnerships reflects broader trends in the cybersecurity sector, where collaboration between governmental and commercial entities is becoming increasingly important to manage diverse and complex risks.

The planned initiatives under the partnership are expected to support ongoing national efforts to localise cyber training technologies, address emerging threat categories, and further develop Japan's cyber workforce through specialist training and joint research.

The partnership aims to deliver operational cyber exercise platforms for both technical and managerial personnel across sectors, reinforcing Japan's approach to both current and anticipated cybersecurity threats.