A new specialised cyber facility has been opened by the Nuclear Decommissioning Authority (NDA) group.
The Group Cyberspace Collaboration Centre (GCCC) aims to foster collaboration among nuclear operators and the supply chain in the adoption of innovative technologies like AI and robotics.
It also seeks to strengthen the collective ability to defend against cyber threats.
Cyber security attacks are a 'constant and evolving threat' to all organisations, including the civil nuclear sector.
The GCCC is designed to be a hub for cyber, digital, and engineering experts to share knowledge and strategies for adopting new technologies and countering emerging threats.
David Peattie, NDA group CEO, said: "The GCCC is further enhancing our collective ability to keep us safe, secure, resilient, and sustainable in cyberspace.
"Enabling us to work together more closely means we can defend as one, benefitting the collective security of the individual organisations we serve.
"When it comes to security, we are never complacent, and we continually invest in our expertise and our technology to further strengthen our capability."
The official opening was attended by representatives from the government, the nuclear sector, regulators, and the supply chain, who learned about the NDA’s ongoing investment in cyber defences and the secure use of technology in its decommissioning mission.
Warren Cain, ONR Superintending Inspector, said: "All nuclear sites must have strong cyber security systems in place to protect important information and assets from cyber threats.
"Cyber security is a key regulatory priority for the Office for Nuclear Regulation, and we welcome the NDA’s commitment to strengthen their cyber defences with this new specialist facility."
The NDA is responsible for the 'safe, secure, and cost-effective clean-up' of the UK’s earliest nuclear sites.
It consists of the NDA and its four key components: Sellafield, Nuclear Restoration Services, Nuclear Waste Services, and Nuclear Transport Solutions.
The NDA has invested in group-wide cyber services and capabilities to ensure systems are 'better protected and more resilient', delivering a consistent approach to common cyber security threats.
The GCCC, located in Herdus House in Cumbria, is a multi-functional space for partners to explore how new technologies can support mission delivery and facilitate security operations, cyber exercising, and training.
It is part of the NDA group’s expanding portfolio of digital and cyber capabilities, including a joint Cyber Security Operations facility, which opened in Warrington in August.
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