At the Ministry of Defence (MOD) site in Corsham, Wiltshire, a dedicated cyber operations centre plays a critical role in protecting the UK’s flagship aircraft carrier, HMS Prince of Wales. This facility, operating under Operation Highmast, is tasked with defending the vessel against a range of cyber threats, including potential attacks from Iranian-backed groups in the Red Sea region. The team at Corsham monitors and responds to over 11,000 cyber incidents monthly, with a significant portion originating from hostile actors.
The MOD Corsham site houses several key units, including the Global Operations Security Control Centre (GOSCC), Joint Security Co-ordination Centre (JSyCC), and Defence Digital. These units are responsible for overseeing and securing the MOD’s information and communications technology infrastructure. Additionally, the 13th Signal Regiment, the British Army’s first dedicated cyber regiment, is set to relocate to Corsham by 2028, further strengthening the site’s cyber capabilities.
In response to the increasing demand for cyber expertise, the UK Armed Forces have introduced a fast-track recruitment scheme aimed at accelerating the entry of cyber specialists into operational roles. This initiative includes reduced training times and competitive salaries, with recruits expected to be operational by the end of 2025. Successful candidates will be deployed to critical locations, including Corsham, to bolster the UK’s cyber defence posture.
The strategic importance of Corsham as a cyber operations hub underscores the UK’s commitment to safeguarding its military assets in the digital age. Through continued investment and development of cyber capabilities, the MOD aims to maintain a robust defence against evolving cyber threats.
