Delivering Dynamic Cyber Tabletop Exercises for Defence
Sector: Defence (with applicability to Critical Infrastructure) | Capability: Cyber Incident Response Exercises & Playbook Development | Timeframe: 2020–2024
Problem
Defence staff required skills development in responding to dynamic and rapidly evolving cyber scenarios. Industry-standard exercises were often too generic, failing to reflect Defence’s environment, policies, and operational context. This left personnel underprepared for real-world incidents. Defence also needed a practical way to test and improve incident response plans, identify gaps, and develop effective playbooks.
Solution
Calexi staff designed and delivered a program of Defence-specific cyber tabletop exercises, leading scenario development and facilitation. Key elements included:
- Dynamic, adaptive scenarios that evolved in real time based on participant actions, mirroring real-world complexity.
- Alignment with Defence policies and procedures to ensure exercises reinforced compliance and operational realities.
- Direct linkage to playbook development, validating and refining response plans while accelerating the creation of new playbooks.
- Structured after-action reviews, providing actionable findings and recommendations to close identified gaps.
- Delivery of a dedicated incident management course, training over 15 incident managers through tabletop-led activities.
Results
The program delivered tangible operational improvements:
- Incident response plans validated and improved through realistic testing.
- Multiple new playbooks established to guide future response activities.
- Staff readiness uplifted, giving personnel confidence in managing cyber incidents.
- Improved coordination between teams, strengthening communication and decision-making under pressure.
Related Services
Cyber Security
Conducting security posture assessments, incident simulations, and Essential Eight readiness reviews across Defence, government, and critical infrastructure sectors.
Training & Development
Delivering tailored cyber training programs, tabletop exercises, and workforce development to build operational confidence and resilience.
Project Management
Managing the design, delivery, and review of readiness programs, ensuring lessons learned translate into measurable capability improvements.
Proof Points
✓ Multiple new playbooks developed and integrated into Defence processes
✓ Improved and validated incident response plans
✓ 15 incident managers trained through a dedicated tabletop course
✓ Exceptional participant feedback on the realism and value of scenarios
Is your team ready for the next cyber incident?
Calexi designs and delivers dynamic cyber tabletop exercises that expose gaps, build confidence, and improve response plans. Talk to us about preparing your team today.