SINGAPORE – With the growing threat of cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, the Ministry of Defence (Mindef) is seeking to tighten its defences by further training its experts and studying the methods employed by hackers.

It is doing so through a partnership with the Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) to strengthen collaboration in several areas, including research and technology, threat modelling and training, Mindef said on Thursday (Sept 16).

A memorandum of understanding on operational technology security for critical infrastructure was signed by Defence Cyber Chief Brigadier-General (BG) Mark Tan and SUTD Associate Provost for Research and International Relations Yeo Kiat Seng.

The signing took place at the university on the sidelines of a two-week cybersecurity exercise co-organised by the Singapore Armed Forces (SAF) and SUTD, called the Critical Infrastructure Security Showdown.

Mindef said that recent cyberattacks on critical infrastructure, such as fuel pipelines and power distribution systems, are “stark reminders of the increasingly sophisticated cyber threats that countries face”.

“The MOU underscores Mindef’s and the Singapore Armed Forces’ commitment to build up cybersecurity expertise and capabilities against potential operational technology cyber threats.”

Operational technology (OT) systems include computer systems designed to be deployed in critical infrastructure, such as power, water, manufacturing and similar industries.

Such infrastructure overseas has been hit by hackers recently. Colonial Pipeline, which supplies about 45 per cent of fuel used on the east coast of the United States, was hit by a ransomware attack in May.

That same month, a cyberattack on Brazilian food giant JBS forced the closure of all its beef plants in the US.

OT infrastructure and enhancements have been used in projects such as energy-efficient buildings and the Republic of Singapore Air Force’s Smart Airbase, said Mindef.

The agreement is expected to cement collaboration between Mindef and the SAF and the SUTD iTrust Centre for Research in Cyber Security in several areas.

The iTrust centre will allow Mindef to test cyber defence measures and better…