CAFCYBERCOM leads the charge in regional cyber defence with Sarajevo training

September 26, 2025 - Defence Stories

Estimated read time – 2:00

By: Major Christopher Daniel, Senior Public Affairs Officer, CAFCYBERCOM

In an era where cyber threats move faster than armies, Canada is helping global partners keep pace. From September 15 to 19, the Canadian Armed Forces Cyber Command (CAFCYBERCOM) delivered the Military Cyber Security Operations Course (MCSOC) in Sarajevo, Bosnia, and Herzegovina—arming the next generation of cyber defenders with the tools to protect nations and critical infrastructure.

Hosted under the Department of National Defence’s Military Training and Cooperation Program (MTCP) in partnership with the Ministry of Defence of Bosnia and Herzegovina, the course welcomed participants from eight countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Georgia, Kazakhstan, Kosovo, Jordan, Moldova, Tunisia, and Ukraine. Over five intensive days, attendees gained hands-on experience in defensive cyber operations, security operations centres, cyber protection teams, digital forensics, and cyberspace doctrine.

“Building cyber resilience with our global partners is critical in today’s security environment,” said Maj José Pablo Bustamante, Lead Trainer from CAFCYBERCOM. “This course equips personnel new to cyber roles with the skills to integrate cyber considerations into operational planning, safeguarding national networks, and vital infrastructure.”

Chad Wagar, Training Officer from the MTCP, emphasized the long-term benefits: “Through this program, Canada strengthens defence capabilities, fosters interoperability, and supports global stability.”

Adem Mustafić, Head of the Section for Standardization and Communication Security at Bosnia and Herzegovina’s Ministry of Defence, added, “This training enhances skills, builds trust, and underscores the strategic importance of cyberspace. The regional exchange of experiences fosters a shared understanding of cyber threats and strengthens collective resilience.”

Established in September 2024, CAFCYBERCOM unifies Canada’s military cyber capabilities—including joint electronic warfare, signals intelligence, and full-spectrum cyber operations. Its mission is to defend Canadian interests at home and abroad, enhance partner capacity, and strengthen interoperability with NATO, NORAD, Five Eyes partners, and other international partners.

The MCSOC reflects Canada’s defence priorities outlined in Our North, Strong and Free, emphasizing international engagement and support for allies. By helping partner nations counter cyber threats, Canada contributes to regional stability and a more resilient global cyber environment.

Since Bosnia and Herzegovina became a state in 1992, Canada has supported its development through peacekeeping, security, reconstruction, governance reform, and institution-building. Over 40,000 Canadian Armed Forces personnel served in the region following the Yugoslav wars, and Canada continues to provide MTCP training in peacekeeping methodology and language instruction.

The MCSOC demonstrates that Canada is a reliable partner in cyberspace—investing in people, partnerships, and technology to detect, deter, and respond to cyber threats today and into the future.