CIRCAT

CIRCAT aims to enhance cybersecurity resilience for large industrial installations and sectors indicated as critical infrastructure sectors in NIS2 (Directive (EU) 2022/2555) by leveraging AI-driven tools and processes. The project will support organisations in strengthening their cybersecurity posture through continuous risk assessment, penetration testing, and advanced training within a controlled Cyber Range (CR) environment. By integrating near real-time monitoring, AI-based threat detection, and automated mitigation strategies, CIRCAT will ensure proactive defence against emerging cyber threats. A key focus of CIRCAT is the deployment of continuous monitoring systems that provide real-time assessments of cyber risks and vulnerabilities. These systems will allow organisations to conduct customised risk scenario analyses, improving their ability to detect and respond to threats dynamically. Additionally, CIRCAT will leverage AI automation to identify, assess, and prioritise vulnerabilities, optimising resource allocation and reducing response times to mitigate potential attacks effectively. CIRCAT will also integrate Cyber Threat Intelligence (CTI) feeds into its CR environment, detecting, monitoring and enabling realistic simulations of advanced cyber threats. These simulations will facilitate penetration testing scenarios across networks, cloud systems, Industrial Control Systems (ICS), and IoT, assessing vulnerabilities under near real-world conditions. Furthermore, CIRCAT will establish a scalable CR network to host joint cybersecurity exercises, particularly in cross-border scenarios. By fostering collaboration among EU Member States, CIRCAT will enhance coordinated responses to cyber incidents, improving resilience against cyber threats and incidents across critical sectors by providing them with knowledge and expertise. Through AI-enhanced cybersecurity tools, collaborative training, and continuous risk assessment, CIRCAT will play a vital role in strengt