International Conference on Secure Systems Design and Technology Development (SysTechDev 2026)

An integrated simulation model for maritime cybersecurity: A comparative research analysis approach

Not scheduled

20m

''Vasil Levski'' National Military University

Paper – Poster Presentation Defense and Security Technology

Speakers

Dilyana Dimitrova (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy) Ekaterina Dyankova (Nikola Vaptsarov Naval Academy)

Description

This paper presents the development of an integrated simulation model for maritime cybersecurity training, based on a comparative analysis of existing training platforms. For the purposes of the study, leading international and industrial solutions were evaluated, including Cyber-SHIP Lab, Naval Cyber Range, CDeX Maritime Cybersecurity Scenario, SeaSAFER, K-Sim, and NavSim. Through the applied comparative approach, the advantages and limitations of standalone physical and virtual training environments were identified. Based on these findings, a new, integrated hybrid model was designed that conceptually combines real ship bridge infrastructure with dynamic virtual cyberattack scenarios. It is concluded that the proposed architecture improves trainee preparation by simultaneously developing technical competencies, analytical thinking, and crew coordination in managing cyber incidents at sea.
Keywords: integrated model, maritime cybersecurity, comparative analysis, hybrid simulators, simulation training.