Swansea University is leading a pioneering project focused on enhancing cybersecurity in aerospace systems through Model-Based Systems Engineering (MBSE). The initiative, led by Professor Siraj Shaikh from the university's Department of Computer Science and Dr. Hoang Nga Nguyen, aims to integrate cybersecurity into the early design stages of aerospace systems.
The collaboration involves experts from Novel and focuses on developing frameworks to improve system resilience against cyber threats. Ian Thomas, Technical Lead at Novel, emphasized the synergy between their model-based engineering expertise and Swansea University's research in systems security. "By combining Novel’s deep expertise in model-based engineering with Swansea University’s world-class research in systems security, we’re creating new tools and practices that can integrate cybersecurity at the heart of aerospace and improve performance in the industry," said Thomas.
Professor Shaikh highlighted the project's potential benefits beyond enhanced cybersecurity. “This project aims to enhance aerospace cybersecurity by strengthening resilience and protecting infrastructure from cyber threats. It also creates valuable opportunities for job creation and skills development in Wales, equipping researchers and engineers with advanced cybersecurity expertise to support industry growth,” he noted.
The initiative is supported by Rebecca Evans MS, Cabinet Secretary for Economy, Energy and Planning. She expressed enthusiasm about its economic implications: “The Endeavr programme is all about growing the Welsh economy by helping turn innovative ideas into reality and I am delighted to see cutting edge technology being developed by Swansea University in support of Airbus Defence and Space.”
Nick Crew from Airbus Endeavr Wales acknowledged the importance of this collaboration for operational effectiveness: “We are looking forward to collaborating with the well-recognised experts in the area of cybersecurity and systems engineering from Swansea University and Novel to provide increased operational effective cybersecurity in our industry.”
Key focus areas include early threat detection, security validation, best practice frameworks for integrating cybersecurity during design stages, and adherence to existing standards. The team aims to share their findings across the sector to bolster cyber resilience within aerospace industries.